The coordinator of the Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum, Osaro Onaiwu, has joined the race for the forthcoming governorship race in his home state of Edo.

Mr. Onaiwu, in a letter to stakeholders across the state’s political divide, said he decided to join the governorship race owing to overwhelming calls from a broad segment of Edo people, and that he would be denying the people of his services and expertise if he turned down the clarion call.

The statement reads in part: “Several years ago when I started my selfless service to the governors of our beloved country, Nigeria, little did I know that I was entering a territory that will expose me to the inner workings of executive power and the full realization that service is indeed about the people.

“I found out that successful governors are those who realize this, thus embark on legacy projects and policies that will impact people even beyond their time.

“The good people of Edo State, unknown to me were also watching and observing my service to governors and concluded that it was preparation for higher service to them in Edo State.”

The governorship aspirant said he decided to take up the challenge after receiving several calls from elders, youths, women, political and economic stakeholders, at home and in the Diaspora, as well as traditional rulers.

“I am therefore privileged to humbly announce that I am joining the governorship race in the 2016 election for Government House, Edo State.

“I am convinced that if elected, failing is not an option, not with the lessons learnt and experience garnered serving state executives over the years has exposed me to what it takes to succeed and be the solution.”

As a first step in the race, Mr. Onaiwu would be seeking the ticket of his party, the PDP.