By Balarabe Oshiafi
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and helper of the down-trodden in Iyuku-Uzairue, Etsako-West local government area (LGA) of Edo State, Clement Igbafe Afekhena has charged the Governor-elect, Monday Okpewholo to give prime attention to the development of neglected communities in Edo State.
Okpebholo is set to be sworn-in on November 12, 2024 as Edo State Governor.
The youthful businessman turned politician made this assertion with specific reference to Iyuku-Uzairue Etsako-West LGA, during a media chat on Monday in Benin City, Edo State.
“My involvement in politics is premised on my love for my people and the resultant persuasion to serve as a catalyst for the attraction of the dividends of democracy”, he declared.
Investigation reveals that this philanthropist who is also the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Saint Clemmy Distribution Company has been a consistent provider of bore holes, scholarships, free vehicles to ease up commuting in Ikpoba Okha where he was bred and Iyuku-Uzairue, his homestead.
“What Igbafe is doing for us in Iyuku is unprecedented. This young man is using his personal resources to provide scholarships for our children, pay WAEC fees for us, and just last year, he donated a bus to be carrying people to town and back free of charge”, Anthony Osemobor, a resident of the area said in an interview.
Several other respondents urged the in-coming government of Monday Okpewholo to reward Clement Igbafe Afekhena with a worthy appointment adding that the young leader appreciably mobilized his people to vote for APC in the September 21 Edo guber polls.
Afekhena gave further insight into his commitment to philanthropy and the connect with his involvement in politics.
According to him, the endeavour is to further the legacies of his departed Mother who is fondly and popularly known as Azegbouno.
“It is my Mother’s benevolent spirit that started it. During my mom’s burial in Iyuku, I was deeply touched by the love for her and palpable state of lack that they were facing. My mind is made up. I’m committed to furthering her legacies and contributing to bettering the lot of the people of Iyuku, nay Edo State “, he enthused.
The Chieftain later played host to an Afenmai APC Women group in his office in Benin. The visit was to strategize for due recognition and inclusion in Monday Okpewholo’s government.
Igbafe warmly received them and encouraged them to align with women leaders in Edo North.
