Obaseki loses another commissioner to APC, 10 days to election

By Peterson Ibi

Barely 10 days to the governorship election in Edo State, Governor Godwin Obaseki has again lost another member of his executive to the opposition APC.

Joseph Ikpea tendered his resignation letter on Wednesday, coming barely 10 days to the governorship elections in the state, in which Obaseki is seeking a re-election.

Until his resignation, Ikpea was the Commissioner in charge of the Minerals, Oil and Gas ministry.

In his resignation letter dated 9 September, and addressed to Governor Obaseki, Ikpea cited reason of trust, respect and interest for his resignation.

He also attributed his reason to his inability to abandon the party (All Progressives Congress) he has helped to nurture in his council area and the state in general.

“Politics is all about interest, trust and respect for one another, but I have never seen any of this till date, and I am also not sure of it even if I am there tomorrow.

“Moreover, the party that is known todat as APC was brought to Esan South East by me and over 90 percent of my supporters are APC members till date.

“So, it is difficult for me to leave the house that I built. Considering also that this administration didn’t recognise my leadership role,” he stated.

Ikpea however said he would always be available to provide support to the government whenever called upon to do so.

Obaseki’s government had in recent weeks lost two other serving commissioners.