Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki expressed his desire to be remembered for his achievements rather than the political conflicts he has encountered during his tenure. Speaking to reporters on Friday after inaugurating the Airport Road Parks and Garden in Benin City, he emphasized the importance of his legacy as he approaches the end of his time in office.
When asked how he would like to be remembered, Obaseki stated, “Certainly not for the fights,” alluding to his numerous political struggles with opponents and former allies. His focus is now on the positive impacts of his administration, particularly with the newly commissioned park, designed to be a vibrant public space for residents.
Obaseki outlined plans for the garden’s sustainability, stating, “When we thought about all these public spaces and how to manage them, we also created a revenue model to support them.” He explained that revenue generated from surrounding billboards will fund park maintenance, with additional support from Prestige Hotel and local military units to ensure security.
The governor expressed his belief in the importance of completing projects before celebrating their inauguration, asserting, “We will try to commission as much as we can, but I don’t think we will be commissioning as much as 10 percent of what we have done.” He highlighted the community’s positive response to his leadership, noting, “I feel appreciated. The response from our people is quite commendable.”
As his administration nears its conclusion, the governor-elect, Monday Okpebholo, is set to take office on November 12, marking the end of Obaseki’s eight-year governance.
