THE  proposed rally by the youths of Edo state, under the aegis of “Edo is in Safe Hands”, in support of Comrade Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s bid for a second term, does not appear to have gone down well with a few politicians in the state.

All sorts of reasons, ranging from the sublime to the clearly ridiculous, are being peddled just to subdue the youths, or douse their enthusiasm.

Although under a democracy, the expression of dissenting views should be encouraged, the requirement for a balanced opinion cannot be over-emphasised. In this regard, I think it is regrettable that some would seem to have been completely blinded to the positive impact of the planned rally by Edo youths on the healthy democratic development in the state.

It stands to reason that the vile condemnation of the proposed youths rally is a reflection of the failure of some self-centred politicians to grasp the essence of the political philosophy of Edo state’s Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).

We might as well remind them that beginning from 2006/2007, the founding fathers of the Edo ACN were emphatically concerned to initiate, and press on with a political re-engineering process, throughout the length and breadth of the state, designed to reawaken and sustain the active interest and participation of the people in the democratic process.

The propagation of new (or fresh) ideas, consistent with acceptable norms of democracy was, and remains, central to the renewed efforts by the leadership of the Edo ACN to convert democracy to a veritable tool for the accelerated development of Edo state.

These ideas have been relentlessly preached and put into practice by the Comrade Governor of Edo state, since November 2008. The resultant impact on the overall development of the state, has inspired our people, especially the youths, to be more committed to their civic responsibility.  This is what the planned youths rally demonstrates conclusively. So, no blackmail, no matter how vicious, can stop them from their patriotic course of action.

It is hoped that this explanation will be helpful to those who are still venomously opposed to the youths rally in coming to terms with the reality of the political situation in Edo state right now. And by the way, it is simply difficult to understand how a peaceful rally by youths in demonstration of their support for theirgovernor can hurt anyone or group. After all, the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guarantees the right of citizens to assemble and freely express their views.

Although, it might be dishearten a few selfish politicians, Edo youths derive strength and encouragement for the rally by the overwhelming approval of  majority of people across the administrative divides of the state. As a matter of fact, all are looking forward, with keen interest, to the youths rally in support of Governor Oshiomhole’s bid for a second term. Of course, the planned rally promises to be beneficial to our democratic experience.

For example, under a democratic form of government, the support of the people for a leader who is perceived to have performed creditably, promotes good governance. Such demonstration of support for a creditable leader, as planned by the youths of Edo state, has been seen to be effective in motivating the leader, as well as others aspiring to political leadership position, to be better prepared to serve the people selflessly and diligently.

Instructively, the umbrella union of Edo youths, “Edo is in Safe Hands”, means exactly what it says. In its elegant simplicity, “Edo is in Safe Hands” translates to Edo people’s unequivocal approval of  Oshiomhole’s masterful management of the social, economic and political affairs of  the state.

That is why Edo youths have come to the conclusion that the Comrade governor’s decision to offer his services for a second term merits the support of all. Understandably, this message is the source of the bellyache of some candidates of the opposing political parties.

There is no doubt that they feel intimidated by the message; and certainly, in view of the forthcoming gubernatorial election, the message also effectively takes the wind out of their sail. However, the youths of Edo state do not owe anyone any apologies for this.

To be sure, “Edo is in Safe Hands” is an altruistic organisation, and our members, at home and abroad, do not depend on government to fund our projects. As stakeholders, we recognise the need to contribute our quota to the accelerated development of our state, through the demonstration of support for a leader who has achieved so much for our Edo people. We are convinced beyond any iota of doubts that, with Comrade Adams Oshiomhole as Governor, Edo state is in safe hands.

The transformation of the infrastructure for sustainable growth and development, especially roads, the refurbishing of public schools and hospitals across Edo state, the emphatic demonstration of concern for the socio-economic well being of Edo youths, women and children, the creation of economically rewarding jobs, to mention just a few, all attest to our position that, under the leadership of Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, Edo is in safe hands.

So, all we are saying is: let the music play on! It bears restating that no blackmail can stop us from demonstrating our support for a governor who, as also acknowledged by the overwhelming majority of Edo people, has performed creditably.

Mr. IYARE IKHUORIA, wrote from The Netherlands