Benin Lawyer Advocates for Generational Change in Edo State Politics
Daniel Osa-Ogbegie, a notable lawyer and intellectual based in Benin, has expressed his support for the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State. He commended the party, led by Governor Monday Okpeboro and state chairman Jarrett Tenebe, for its efforts to dismantle the long-standing political status quo and empower a new generation of leaders.
In a recent statement issued in Benin City, Osa-Ogbegie highlighted the domination of Edo politics by the same group of actors over several decades. This entrenched circle of politicians often rotates through various government positions, significantly limiting opportunities for talented youth to engage in governance and party management.
He emphasized that the current APC leadership is bravely confronting this trend by creating pathways for a fresh slate of political actors. This initiative aims to foster political renewal and rejuvenate engagement among younger constituents.
According to Osa-Ogbegie, the emergence of young leaders within various party organizations and government institutions signifies a genuine commitment to progressive change. He asserted that much of the criticism directed at Jarrett Tenebe stems from individuals who feel threatened by the generational shift taking place within the APC, which seeks to create more opportunities for the talented youth of Edo State.
The lawyer cited numerous instances of young politicians appointed to significant roles within the party and government, including Sylvester Aigboboh, the APC’s Deputy National Chairman, as well as various commissioners, special advisers, and local government leaders. This trend, he claims, marks a definitive break from what he referred to as an era of recycled political leadership.
Bringing attention to grassroots developments, Osa-Ogbegie highlighted young leaders like Austin Imafidon from Ufunwode, Sunny Ekpesong from Etsako, Eric Osawalu from Ikpoba Oka, and Gabriel Idoseli from Oredo. These figures represent a new political culture that prioritizes competence, innovation, and community involvement.
He also pointed to Aitaregbe Ernest, known as “China Boy,” in Owan as another example of the growing acceptance of young leaders within the APC. Furthermore, Osa-Ogbegie noted similar trends within government agencies, where younger professionals are increasingly entrusted with leadership responsibilities.
Highlighting expert appointments such as Reverend Stanley Dave Ighodaro at the Edo State Parks and Gardens Authority and Kasim Otono as Special Adviser on Oil and Gas, Osa-Ogbegie underscored the administration’s commitment to integrating youthful expertise into governance.
In concluding his remarks, he praised Governor Okpeboro for recognizing that effective governance demands fresh ideas, technological literacy, and heightened engagement with the younger demographic. Osa-Ogbegie noted that innovative political leadership cannot rely on outdated practices and underscored the importance of giving young citizens meaningful opportunities to shape the future of Edo State.
He lauded Tenebe for his role in stabilizing the party and navigating a challenging yet essential transitional phase. Osa-Ogbegie suggested that historical assessments may one day credit Jarrett Tenebe and Governor Okpeboro with pioneering a shift away from entrenched political dominance towards a leadership paradigm that fully incorporates the younger generation.
