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Prominent Edo Politician Charles Idahosa Dies: Okpebholo and Obaseki Lead Tributes

Introduction

The political landscape of Edo State has been plunged into mourning following the sudden passing of a prominent chieftain and former Commissioner for Information, Charles Idahosa. Known for his outspoken nature and significant influence within the state’s political sphere, Idahosa’s death has elicited an outpouring of grief from across party lines. Current Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki, have both issued heartfelt condolences, highlighting Idahosa’s enduring legacy and personal impact on their lives and the state’s development. This article explores the details of his passing, his storied political career, and the reactions from key political figures in Edo State.

Key Points

Background

Charles Idahosa, a household name in Edo State politics, was a native of Ehor in the Uhunmwonde Local Government Area. His political journey began decades ago, where he first served as the chairman of his local council, laying the foundation for a career characterized by loyalty and vocal advocacy.

Idahosa was widely respected and sometimes feared for his bluntness. He was not just a politician but a political strategist who played critical roles in the administration of the state. His influence spanned various capacities, including serving as a Commissioner, a board member, and a Special Adviser. He was known by the monikers “Akakasiaka” and “Charlie Tempo,” names that became synonymous with his dynamic personality and political prowess.

Throughout his career, Idahosa was deeply embedded in the structures of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State. However, his loyalty was often dictated by his personal convictions and relationships rather than blind partisanship, a trait that defined his interactions with the state’s highest office holders.

Analysis

The Passing of a Political Stalwart

The news of Charles Idahosa’s death broke on a Saturday afternoon, sending shockwaves through the political community. According to reports, he passed away after engaging in his daily ritual of receiving guests at his residence located along the Airport Road in Benin City. This routine was a testament to his open-door policy and his continued relevance as a political hub for associates and constituents.

The confirmation of his death came from close sources, including his younger brother, Andrew Idahosa, who expressed profound shock at the sudden turn of events. “Daddy was full of life this morning, as usual he came downstairs receiving people. I don’t know what happened; it is shocking,” Andrew stated, underscoring the unexpected nature of his passing.

A Complex Political Legacy

Charles Idahosa’s political legacy is one of complexity and shifting alliances, driven by personal relationships and ideological stances. He was a core loyalist of Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, serving as his Political Adviser throughout Oshiomhole’s eight-year tenure as governor. During this period, Idahosa was a fierce defender of the Oshiomhole administration.

However, when Godwin Obaseki ran for governor in 2016, Idahosa famously “pitched his tent” with Obaseki following the latter’s fallout with Oshiomhole. This move highlighted Idahosa’s willingness to break ranks with long-standing political alliances. His support for Obaseki was so robust that he authored a book titled “The Fall of the Last Godfather,” a narrative that chronicled the political dynamics of that era. He even defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) alongside Obaseki to support the governor’s second-term election in 2020.

Yet, Idahosa was also known for his independence. After Obaseki secured his re-election, Idahosa was among the first to publicly declare a fallout with the governor, demonstrating that his support was conditional on performance and principles. Following this, he returned to the APC and notably became the first politician to release campaign jingles for Senator Monday Okpebholo, the eventual winner of the subsequent gubernatorial election.

Practical Advice

Understanding Edo State Political Dynamics

For observers of Nigerian politics, the life of Charles Idahosa serves as a case study in the fluidity of political alliances in the South-South region. If you are studying Edo politics or engaging in political analysis, consider the following:

• Personal Relationships Matter: In Edo politics, personal bonds often supersede party lines. Idahosa’s moves were frequently guided by his relationships with individuals like Oshiomhole and Obaseki.
• The Role of the “Kingmaker”: Idahosa represented the class of political “kingmakers” who hold significant sway during elections. His release of jingles for Okpebholo signaled a shift in allegiance that many voters followed.
• Verifying News: In the wake of a prominent figure’s death, misinformation can spread. Always rely on official statements from government spokespersons (like the Chief Press Secretary) or direct family confirmations.

FAQ

Conclusion

The death of Charles Idahosa marks the end of an era for a specific brand of political activism in Edo State. He was a man who commanded attention, whether through his writings, his public statements, or his political realignments. The tributes from Governor Monday Okpebholo and former Governor Godwin Obaseki, despite their own complex political history, underscore the respect Idahosa commanded. As the people of Ehor and the entire state mourn, his legacy as “Charlie Tempo”—a man who gave his all to the political evolution of Edo—remains indelible. His passing is not just a loss to his family but a significant moment in the history of Edo State politics.