Edo poll: Govs shouldn’t enjoy immunity, says APGA candidate

The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance in Edo State, Dr. Isaiah Osifo, has said he does not believe in the idea of a governor having immunity from being prosecuted for crimes.

According to him, immunity for governors suggests that they are superior to other citizens, contrary to the tenet of democracy.

Osifo, who spoke to journalists in Benin on Tuesday, said if given the chance to rule the state he would within the first 30 days enthrone the rule of law.

According to him, the rule of law is lacking under the current administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki, who, he alleged, demolished people’s houses without a court order.

“You cannot talk of democracy without the rule of law. For example, those houses demolished by Governor Godwin Obaseki’s government are owned by individuals. Was there a judgment given by any court of law for the demolition?

“A state that has the rule of law will not just pounce on people’s property and demolish them. There is no rule of law in Edo State as far as I am concerned. If I am elected, I will ensure we are all equal under the law.

“I don’t even believe in the immunity for governors  because you can’t commit crime and say you are covered by the immunity clause. What kind of immunity is that? Everybody must be equal before the law. A citizen must know that he is equal to the governor and I don’t need money to do that,” Osifo said.

Osifo, a former Chairman of Uhumwonde Local Government Area and former Chief of Staff to former Governor Oserheimen Osunbor, said six key elements were needed to build a virile state.

He identified the elements as the rule of law, accountability/due process, the autonomy of the judiciary, independent House of Assembly, autonomous and well-funded local government and a professional, impartial public service.

 “The six key elements I mentioned are things you can achieve in 30 days without spending money and that will put the state on the path of rapid development and progress,” Osifo said.

He also refuted speculation of any alliance with the People Democratic Party, the All Progressives Congress or the Labour Party, noting that he is in the race to win on account of his sterling credentials and records in public service and challenged other candidates to submit themselves for public scrutiny.

Osifo further promised to revive the fortune of the state with massive investment in agriculture which he said has the capability to guarantee food security and provide jobs for millions of unemployed youths.