A socio-political group, the Safe Edo Movement, Tuesday, in Benin threw its weight behind the embattled All Progressive Congress (APC), national chairman, Adams Oshiomhole.

Led by its President, Mr Chris Etuakhor, the group reaffirmed its solidarity with the leadership of Oshiomhole.

The group disclosed this during a visit to Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, a frontline aspirant in the forthcoming Edo governorship election under the APC.

Etuakhor said that Oshiomhole should count on their loyalty in the struggle, which he described as one between progressive and reactionary forces.

The group, which also called on Ize-Iyamu to contest for the number one seat in the state, said Edo needs a government that could deliver on the development needs of the people.

“We want dividends that draw from the core aspects of infrastructural and social development.

“On a moral plain we believe that as a pastor, you understand the fear of God and will imbue in our children, youths and even adults the fear of God.

“You will engender a psyche that anchors on the absoluteness of morals as the defining integral of the human essence,” he said.

He said the mission of the group was to save the state and evolve a safe Edo.

He added that the group was committed to a change of government in Edo, stressing that “this is the testament of faith we will not negotiate”.

“We desire a man of the appropriate political sagacity, mental endowment and psychological wellbeing to regenerate hope for our people.

“We are here to implore you to contest for the 2020 governorship election in Edo, because we believe that you will offer a new narrative for Edo and its people, our people, your people,” he said.

Responding, Ize-Iyamu said that the attraction to politics were ideas, manifesto and eloquence, adding that today people become governors without history of political participation and manifesto.

He added that the call by the group was also because the group had identified the need for a change and agreed that something must be done.

He appreciated the group for identifying with the plight of the people, adding that he accepted with “every sense of humility and responsibility” the call. (NAN)