"So then it is not of he that willeth, nor of him that runneth, it is the Lord that showeth mercy" - Romans 9:6

As the All Progressives Congress Edo State Chapter prepares for the primaries to select its flagbearer for this year's gubernatorial elections, with a possibility of an adjustment of the election timetable one man that perfectly fits into the Leadership equation that will bring about cohesion in the party and State, embark on massive provision of social amenities and infrastructures, lead Edo people with the fear of God and respect for the people of the state, embrace every progressive opinions (for or against the government), invest in providing security and welfare of the people and make Edo State proud like Professor Ambrose Alli, Dr S.O Ogbemudia (both of blessed memories) and recently Comrade Adams Oshiomhole did is DR PIUS EGBERANMWEN ODUBU, former Member House of Representatives and former Deputy Governor of Edo State. He was also the Director of Logistics in the President Buhari Campaign Council in the 2019 general elections.

In looking for a fitting candidate that will replace Obaseki who had rolled two terms into one and is on his way out , the APC Leadership and membership must not make the mistake the Israelites made when they first demanded to have a king through Samuel. Indeed, they got a King Saul, and for those who are familiar with the reign of Saul over Israel , you need no telling. (Read 1 Samuel Chapters 8 and 9)

What is it that ODUBU has not got? He began his political journey from the grassroot by running for Orhionmwon Council Chairmanship. He is a two time member of the House of Representatives and a former Deputy Governor of Edo State. Odubu's silent political machinery across Edo State is unbeatable. From Edo North through Edo Central and down to Edo South he enjoys considerable and genuine followership and support on account of his amiable personality, loyalty to the party and contributions to the development of the State. He is indeed, a personage that epitomizes the very essence of party loyalty, dedication, consistency and leadership. These are the attributes that any person seeking to change the narrative for APC and Edo State should possess. Politics being an examination which one doesn't write for himself requires the collaboration of stakeholders and an Odubu candidacy will galvanise all party members to achieve victory.

Politics is not a ONE MAN business. Odubu is a Team player and he is patriotic. He will uphold the virtues of integrity for which he is widely acclaimed. Odubu is an Edo man through and through. In all his life endeavors, he has never shown any desperation as he believes that power belongs to God. He will give it to whosoever he delights in. He worked with Comrade Adams Oshiomhole blamelessly with the latter (Comrade Adams Oshiomhole) once referring to him as the best Deputy Governor in Nigeria. How can a best Deputy Governor not make a good Governor? He will. He ran the APC primaries with Godwin Obaseki in 2016 along with other amiable gentlemen Like Engr Chris Ogiemwonyi and Gen Charles Airhiavbere. Inspite of the outcome, he has been consistent in defending the party , contributing to its wellbeing, galvanizing party members and providing leadership when it matters most.

How else does one serves a party? He has both Legislative and Executive background and experience.

With him there will be no inauguration of a house of assembly where majority of the members will be shut out and the State will be ran without a legally constituted legislature. NEVER!

Odubu's public service records is untainted, without blemish and absolutely clean. What else can a party ask for in its choice of a candidate? INDEED HE IS THE IDEAL CONSENSUS CANDIDATE the APC need to restore the hope of party members who have laboured for the party and Edo people who desire a government with a human face, a government that will be based on the rule of law and a government that will ensure the welfare of the people, promote peace and tranquility. ODUBU will unite the people of Edo at home and in diaspora to contribute in a very systematic and strategic way to the overall development of Our State.

His passion for human capital development and nag for details will enable him pay attention to the things that matter the most for the progress of Edo State. He is humble, diligent, self effacing and does not seek self agrandizement.

ODUBU IS THE MAN FOR THE JOB!

Deacon Uwagboe, is a Public Affairs Analyst and a retiree from the Federal Civil service, writes from Benin City.