Edo PDP Raises Concerns Over Proposed Edo State Airline

 

By Idahosa Musa

Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed concerns over reports that the Edo State Government is considering the establishment of a state-owned airline.

In a statement issued on Friday by its Publicity Secretary, Mr Dan Osa-Ogbegie, the opposition party said the proposal, if pursued, raises questions about priority setting in view of the socio-economic challenges facing the state.

The PDP noted that Edo State is currently confronted with infrastructure deficits, urban renewal challenges and several ongoing projects requiring attention.

According to the party, running an airline involves significant financial commitment, technical expertise and sustained operational capacity, factors it said have posed difficulties for sub-national governments that ventured into similar projects in the past.

The party further drew attention to the condition of Benin, stating that parts of the state capital require urgent intervention, particularly in the areas of road rehabilitation, drainage and municipal services.

It also referenced some strategic projects, including the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), the Radisson Hotel project and the Ossiomo power initiative, which it said would benefit from renewed focus and completion.

The PDP expressed concern over the performance of Edo Geographic Information Service (EdoGIS), noting that effective land administration remains important for revenue generation and investor confidence.

While acknowledging the government’s right to pursue development initiatives, the party urged the state administration to prioritise projects with immediate and broad-based impact on residents.

It cited education, healthcare, transportation, security, youth employment and small and medium-scale enterprise support as areas requiring sustained investment.

The party also advised that limited public resources should be directed toward strengthening existing infrastructure and optimising ongoing projects before embarking on new capital-intensive ventures.

According to the PDP, such an approach would help improve service delivery and enhance public confidence in governance.

The party therefore called on the Edo State Government to review the proposed airline plan and ensure that development policies align with the most pressing needs of the people.

The state government has yet to officially respond to the concerns as at the time of filing this report.