Edo PDP, APC celebrate ex-governor

TRACKING >>Leaders of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State put politics aside to celebrate ex-APC National Chair, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, at 80, on Monday.

PDP’s National Chairman Uche Secondus, who described Oyegun as a national leader, led party chieftains to the occasion, including the Esama of Benin, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion; ex-Governor Lucky Igbinedion; and state PDP Chairman Osagie Ize-Iyamu Dan Orbih.

APC’s National Chairman and former Governor Adams Oshiomhole was, however, absent at the event.

At a thanksgiving mass at Saint Paul Catholic Church, Bishop of Benin Archdiocese Rev. Augustine Akubeze described Oyegun as one of the few former governors “who is living out his faith.”

The cleric said Oyegun did not join politics to deceive the electorate.

He urged political leaders to respect constituted authorities, saying political leaders should know anybody who wants peace must work for justice.

Chairman of Ovia South West Local Government Destiny Enabulele was beaten at the birthday reception.

Enabulele, who attended the event with his aides, was harassed by private security guards hired for the event.

The guards requested Enabulele’s access card. Attempts by his aides to introduce him were rebuffed by the guards, who insisted on a card before he could go in.

One of the guards held Enabulele on the neck while others pushed him. His aides were also pushed out and prevented from entering the reception.

It took the intervention of some dignitaries before the guards allowed Enabulele in manhandling him.