…Gov Okpebholo, Obaseki mourn political Icon

By Idahosa Musa

Former Edo State Commissioner for Information and prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Hon. Charles Idahosa, is dead. He was 72.

Idahosa, a seasoned politician and influential public affairs commentator, reportedly died suddenly on Saturday throwing his family, associates and the political class in Edo State into shock.

As of press time, the family had yet to issue an official statement on his passing. Repeated attempts to reach his younger brother, Andrew Idahosa, were unsuccessful.

However, a source close to the family confirmed the death, describing it as unexpected and deeply painful.

“Daddy was full of life this morning. As usual, he came downstairs and was receiving people. We don’t know what happened. It is shocking,” the source said.

Popularly known as Akakasiaka and Charlie Tempo, Idahosa was widely regarded as one of the most vocal and fearless political voices in Edo State, renowned for his blunt opinions and strong convictions.

He served as Commissioner for Information during the administration of former Governor Lucky Igbinedion and later became Political Adviser to Comrade Adams Oshiomhole throughout the latter’s eight-year tenure as governor.

Following the political fallout between Oshiomhole and his successor, Godwin Obaseki, Idahosa aligned with Obaseki and played an active role in the political realignment that defined that era.

He later authored a controversial book titled “The Fall of the Last Godfather,” which chronicled the political crisis and power struggle in the state.

In 2020, Idahosa defected along with Obaseki to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the governor’s re-election, but their relationship eventually soured after Obaseki secured a second term.

One of the first prominent politicians to publicly announce his break with Obaseki, Idahosa returned to the APC and became an early and vocal supporter of Governor Monday Okpebholo, releasing campaign jingles ahead of the governorship election.

Reacting to his death on Saturday evening, the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, expressed deep sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the Idahosa family of Ehor in Uhunmwode Local Government Area.

In a condolence message issued by his Chief Presss Secretary (CPS), Dr. Patrick Ebojele, the governor described the late Idahosa as a strong party leader, an eminent Edo indigene and a committed public servant who contributed immensely to the political growth and development of the state.

He eulogised the deceased as a former commissioner, board member and special adviser who believed strongly in institution-building and dedicated his life to the ideals of good governance.

The governor prayed for the repose of Idahosa’s soul and asked God to grant comfort and strength to his wife, children, family and the people of Ehor over the painful loss.

Similarly, the immediate past governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, also mourned the passing of the former commissioner, describing him as an illustrious son of the state.

In a statement, Obaseki said the death of Hon. Charles Idahosa, fondly called Charlie Tempo, was a deeply personal loss, noting that they shared long-standing personal, educational and family ties.

“He was a respected leader from Edo South Senatorial District who served the state and nation in various capacities”, Obaseki said, while praying that God grants the family and all who mourn him the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.