File Photo: Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe
By DADA AYOKHAI
Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe of Owan East was among the most talked-about aspirants before the APC governorship primaries.
The retired federal permanent secretary made waves in the Edo political landscape, entering the APC gubernatorial race with remarkable confidence and skill, despite being a clear outsider with no prior political experience or godfather backing.
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His campaign was anchored on his impeccable civil service record.
Though he did not win the ticket, however, his performance in the gubernatorial primary garnered him respect and provided him with invaluable political lessons, positioning him as a noteworthy player in the landscape.
Many expected him to secure a prominent role in Sen. Okpebholo’s kitchen cabinet. That didn’t materialise. Instead, he found himself as Chairman of an Ad-hoc committee , now concluded.
This was despite his involvement in the Sen. Okpebholo Campaign Finance Committee, where he played a pivotal role in mobilising crucial funds for the campaign’s success.
In light of his lesser role within the Okpebholo administration, mounting pressure has now been directed at him to vie for the Owan federal constituency seat however, several extraneous factors loom that could significantly obstruct his ambitions.
One such factor is already emerging as a critical challenge in his political journey, undermining his well-laid plans.
While it may appear trivial at first glance, the home factor issue poses a serious threat and might ultimately serve as a major impediment to Umakhihe’s quest for a seat in the House of Representatives.
However, these pressures overlook the unwritten power rotation arrangement in the Owan axis from which he hails, complicating his prospects of securing the APC ticket.
Credible sources indicate that this existing rotational politics poses a real threat to Umakhihe’s candidacy for the Owan federal constituency seat.
Within the Owan axis—comprising Owan West and Owan East local government areas—there exists a consensus that it is time for the Owan East constituency to produce the next House of Reps member.
Impeccable sources reveal that the primary obstacle to Umakhihe’s emergence lies starkly within his hometown of Otuo.
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First, Otuo has already produced a state assembly lawmaker, and it’s no secret that the incumbent is keen on pursuing a second term.
Secondly his kinsman in Otuo Hon Pally Iriase already had eight years (two terms) in the House of Reps , so the seat is expected to rotate to another axis in Owan East LGA .
With all these formidable factors working against him, it’s crystal clear why Umakhihe is taking his time before officially declaring for the Reps race.
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