Senator Neda Imasuen, who serves the Edo South Senatorial District as a member of the Labour Party (LP), commended President Bola Tinubu for his bold leadership and asserted that the south should be allowed to keep the presidency in 2027.
During a recent meeting with journalists in Benin City, the capital of Edo state, Imasuen praised the president for his “unbelievable strong courage” in managing the country’s issues, advocating for his re-election.
He also expressed support for the Supreme Court’s ruling that removed his fellow party member, Julius Abure, from his position as national chairman of the LP, stating that Abure did not prioritize the party’s interests.
As the only LP senator from Edo state, Imasuen noted that the other two senatorial seats—Edo North and Edo Central—are held by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) members, including former Edo governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole.
Representing a district that heavily leans towards the APC and the leading opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Imasuen indicated his intention to keep journalists informed about his decisions leading up to the 2027 elections. He emphasized that the expected political arrangement is for the North to hold power for eight years, followed by the South for a similar duration. He pointed out that the Northerners might ultimately agree to let the South complete its eight-year term, drawing parallels to the previously accepted tenure of former President Muhammadu Buhari, whom Imasuen criticized for his lackluster presidency despite being allowed to serve his two terms without significant opposition.
Imasuen praised President Tinubu for his courage in making challenging decisions, even when it could jeopardize his chances for a second term, contrasting it with the behavior of some past presidents.
Regarding Abure’s removal, Imasuen expressed that Abure had lost focus and failed to prioritize the party’s well-being. He noted that Abure’s leadership became contentious and divisive, leading to the party’s detriment, and saw the Supreme Court’s ruling as a necessary correction.
Imasuen acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the future of the LP following Abure’s ousting, questioning whether this judgment would revitalize the party or attract former members back.
Finally, he commended President Tinubu for his courage in proceeding with a crucial census before the 2027 elections, aiming for accurate population data despite resistance from the North on this sensitive issue.
