Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, on Monday cancelled the much-anticipated commissioning of the revived New Edo Line transport company in respect for the national mourning declared following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The event, which was scheduled to take place on the same day, was called off shortly before its commencement despite the arrival of dignitaries and guests at the venue. Government insiders revealed that the decision was made out of concern for public sentiment and the optics of holding a celebratory event while the nation observes a period of mourning, with flags flying at half-mast across the country.
New Edo Line, the state-owned transport service, had been non-operational for over 15 years until recent revitalization efforts by the Okpebholo-led administration brought it back to life.
However, the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) criticized the government’s initial decision to go ahead with the commissioning, branding it as “insensitive and ill-timed.” In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Chris Nehikhare, the party condemned what it described as a “public jamboree” that featured a live band and festive activities during a time of national sorrow.
“It is deeply troubling and tone-deaf that the Edo State Government chose to host a public celebration while the country grieves the loss of one of its former leaders,” the PDP stated.
Nehikhare acknowledged that while the late President Buhari may have held opposing political views during the 2020 elections, his death called for unity, respect, and solemnity. He emphasized that Buhari was a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s democratic journey and deserved to be honoured as such.
The Edo PDP extended its condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Buhari family, and the Nigerian people, describing the late former president as an elder statesman and a true patriot.
Comments