Dr. Bright Enabulele, a gubernatorial aspirant in Edo State, has clarified that he’s a technocrat and not a politician.
He made this known during a media parley, where he addressed the press on his dream for the Edo people.
Dr. Enabulele, a renowned figure in the blockchain sector, and pan-African movement is hoping his expertise, and passion for Africa’s innovations, will set him apart from the field of seasoned political candidates.
In the course of the media briefing, Dr. Enabulele stated that he doesn’t fancy the “politician” label. “I’m not a politician,” he declared. “I’m a technocrat with a proven track record of getting things done. Edo State needs a leader who understands the challenges of today and can implement innovative solutions, not someone who plays the political game.”
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Dr. Enabulele’s emphasis on technocratic leadership has resonated with some Edo citizens who are yearning for a change from the status quo. The state, while rich in natural resources, has grappled with issues like infrastructural decay, unemployment, and social unrest. Enabulele expressed belief that his experience can bridge the gap between policy and implementation.
“For too long, Edo State has been governed by rhetoric, not results,” Dr. Enabulele lamented. “We need a leader who can translate good intentions into tangible projects that improve the lives of our people. As an engineer, I’m a problem-solver. That’s the kind of leadership I will bring to Edo State.”
The issue of zoning, a prevalent concept in Nigerian politics where political positions are rotated amongst different regions of a state, however, came up during the media parley. When asked about his stance on zoning in the Edo guber race, Enabulele offered a unique perspective.
“Edo state deserves leaders that indeed care about their wellbeing,” Dr. Enabulele asserted. According to him, zoning is less important when compared to addressing the concerns of the people.
Dr. Enabulele’s statement suggests he prioritizes competence over geographical considerations. Fintech Telex understands that he’s advocating for a meritocratic approach, where the best candidate for the job takes the lead regardless of their origin within the state.
Dr. Enabulele also expressed his deep admiration for the governance style of Prof. Ambrose Alli. The latter, who ruled Edo State from 1979 to 1983, is still revered for his progressive policies, particularly the implementation of free and qualitative education and accessible healthcare for the people he governed.
“The legacies of Governor Ambrose Alli are a shining example of visionary leadership that placed the needs of the people above all else. His commitment to free education and free healthcare empowered Edo citizens and laid a strong foundation for our state’s growth,” he told journalists.
His comments come amidst a growing sentiment among Edo citizens who yearn for a return to the era of social welfare programs championed by Alli. Many residents feel that subsequent administrations have strayed from Alli’s people-centric approach, leading to a decline in the state’s social well-being.
Enabulele stated that he’s not simply advocating for blind nostalgia. He sought to build upon the success of the Alli era while adapting them to the contemporary challenges faced by Edo State.
“Prof. Alli’s vision was remarkable,” Enabulele acknowledged. “But times have changed. We need to take those core principles and translate them into solutions that address the issues of today, such as youth unemployment, infrastructural deficiencies, and rural development.”
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had stated that only six out of 18 registered political parties in Edo State have submitted nominations for the Saturday, September 21, 2024 election. The deadline for nominations is March 24th, and the electoral body warned parties they won’t extend it.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu disclosed this at the first regular quarterly consultative meeting with political parties.
HIs words: “Already, party primaries for the Edo State governorship election have been concluded. By the timetable and schedule of activities for the election, political parties have 20 days to upload the list and personal particulars of their candidates to our dedicated portal.
“We have trained party liaison officers and established a help desk for political parties. The portal opened on 4th March 2024 and will automatically shut down at 6:00pm on Saturday 24th March 2024.
“Two weeks later, only six parties have uploaded their nominations to the portal. We urge you to keep to our schedule of activities and avoid last-minute rush that may undermine your ability to successfully nominate your candidates.
“There will be no extension of time beyond the deadline already published in the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the election, to enable us to publish the personal particulars of candidates (Form EC9) on 31st March 2024 as required by law.”
