Edo North Senator Adams Oshiomhole has addressed the issue of media appearances by the newly elected governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, stating that the All Progressives Congress (APC) cannot force him to grant interviews. His comments come amid concerns about Okpebholo’s absence from media discussions compared to other leading candidates in the election, such as Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Olumide Akpata from the Labour Party.
In an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today program, Oshiomhole emphasized that the APC’s campaign strategy was effective, leading the electorate to support Okpebholo. “Our strategy worked, which is why the people voted. Monday communicated with the Edo electorate, and it resonated,” he remarked.
When questioned about Okpebholo’s reluctance to engage in media interviews or debates before the election, Oshiomhole stated, “People tend to exaggerate the importance of television appearances. It’s not about preventing him from speaking; we are not in a position to compel anyone.”
He further argued that communication extends beyond television, suggesting that radio has a broader reach and is a more effective means of connecting with voters. Oshiomhole concluded by asserting that the governor-elect must demonstrate his value to those who voted for him by articulating how he intends to govern differently from the previous administration.
