One of the Edo 2024 Governorship aspirants under Labour Party, Dr. Ehizojie Ohiowele has unveiled his plans on how he would take Edo State to the next level which would better the lives of the citizens if he is given opportunity to serve as the Governor of the State.
Let us meet with Dr. Ehizogie Ohiowele.
ACS: Can we meet you sir?
Response:
My name is Dr. Ehizojie Ohiowele, a proponent of Democracy, a champion of progress and beacon of hope for the collective aspirations of the people of Edo state. Born and bred indigene in this State. I hail from ward 4, Egwa in Ekpoma, Esan West LGA , Edo State, Edo Central. I am happily married with three children. My wife is from Edo South.
I am a Catholic and member of the St John Catholic Church. I am a titled Chief. I love to read, play golf, and meet network with individuals.
ACS: Tell us a bit about your Educational Background
Response:
I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Statistics from the University of Benin; a Masters degree in Business Administration; another Masters in Economics and Finance, PHD in Business Administration. A Honorary Doctorate in Banking and Financing from the Commonwealth University in the UK.
A hint into the different skills you have acquired
Response:
One of the two major skills I have acquired is Communication skills, the ability to communicate effectively. Any Leader that wants to lead effectively must communicate.
Secondly, I am a visionary. I believe the best way to predict tomorrow is to create it yourself. Everything I've done in my life, I have created. I can easily tell you I've predicted my life up to this point. These two skills have been valuable to me.
How has life treated you, especially Nigeria?
Response:
Nigeria is a tough country, no doubt. No amount of preparation can help you navigate the murky waters of being a Nigerian. Nonetheless, the Nigerian spirit is very strong and resilient. It has been tough. But, we always find a way to bounce back. I will say, it's been up and down. We've had good times and bad.
What are some of the difficulties you have faced in Life?
Response:
I come from an above average family. My parents were very successful in their respective fields. They provided us with almost everything we needed.
I won't say I've had a very tough life, because that would be a lie. I've had a decent life so to speak. But, that has not shielded me or made me immune to the plights of those around me. I see it , I hear it, I feel it. The poverty rate in Edo state today is over 40%, a staggering percentage. So, I understand and identify with this dire situation. When I get into office by the grace of God, poverty as a mission is one of the things I will tackle.
How are you going to tackle the poverty
Response:
There is poverty for a myriad of reasons. One primary reason is, education. Our educational sector has to be rebranded. It is not about paying lip service. We have to ensure proper training of teachers. We have to ensure that the standard of our education needs to be better. Education is a great way of getting out of poverty. Another way is Skills acquisition. We need to help people build skill sets. We will empower people with businesses, we will make sure they have access to loans.
What makes you different? How do you want the people to believe and take you for your word?
Response:
We have been electing leaders for the wrong reasons. Primarily based on selfish interests. We ask leaders for kickbacks before we vote them into office. Definitely, when these individuals get into public office, they don't have our interests at heart. They just want to make more money for themselves. We elect leaders without digging into their history, track records and antecedents. Of course, they lack integrity from day one, but because of selfish interests, we vote them in. I am different. My integrity is intact. My integrity will help me make sure that the promises I make to the people of Edo State as I seek their votes to get to the highest office in the land, I will keep them, I will not fail the people. I am a different breed and a different brand of politician.
What is your motivation for vying for the Governorship of Edo State?
Response:
I've always wanted to serve my people. I am passionate about change. I want to impact lives.
Response:
What are some of the reforms you will make to ensure Edo State ranks amongst the best in Nigeria?
We will have the right team in place. We will focus on institutional reforms. For example, we need to check our tax laws. The civil service also must be well trained.
We will use technology as well.
The identity of the average Nigerian has to change as we move to bevoming a better Nation. With the right leadership, Edo will thrive, excel and move forward
What are the basic requirements for the Governorship office and do you have what it takes?
Response:
First, you must be a Leader. I've led people across different geographies.
My competence is there. I parade skills in understanding challenges, being decisive, responsible and adaptable.
Educational Qualifications must be there. I went to some of the best schools in the world.
I can tell you without mincing words that I am qualified.
It's a youthful State. Why shouldn't a youth lead?
Our people should not be compromised. They should keep an open mind and not sell their conscience. We are doing this for generations yet unborn.
