The Nigerian political landscape, particularly in the South-South region, has been plunged into mourning following the sudden death of a prominent and vocal chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Charles Idahosa. The former Edo State Commissioner for Information passed away at the age of 72, sending shockwaves through political circles.
A Sudden and Shocking Demise
According to sources close to the family, Charles Idahosa was in high spirits just hours before his passing. A family source disclosed that he was "full of life" on the morning of his death, having come downstairs as was his custom to receive visitors. The abrupt nature of his passing has left many in disbelief, with the source adding, "I don’t know what happened; it is shocking." The exact cause of death has not been officially disclosed at this time.
The Political Journey of 'Charlie Tempo'
Charles Idahosa, popularly known by the monikers Akakasiaka and Charlie Tempo, was renowned for his outspoken nature and deep involvement in Edo State politics. His career saw significant alliances and dramatic shifts. He first served as Commissioner for Information under the administration of former Governor Lucky Igbinedion.
Later, he became a key figure in the political machinery of former Governor Adams Oshiomhole, serving as his Political Adviser for the entire eight years of Oshiomhole's tenure. When Oshiomhole's successor, Godwin Obaseki, fell out with his predecessor, Idahosa aligned with Obaseki. He was part of the group that defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2020 to support Obaseki's re-election bid, and even authored a book titled "The Fall of the Last Godfather."
However, in a characteristic political maneuver, Idahosa later broke ranks with Governor Obaseki after the re-election. He was among the first prominent figures to publicly denounce the governor, subsequently rejoining the ruling APC. Demonstrating his commitment, he was reportedly the first to release campaign jingles for the election of the current Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo.
A Grim Week for South-South Politics
The death of Charles Idahosa compounds a tragic week for the political community in Nigeria's South-South region. It comes just one day after the reported passing of Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi, the former lawmaker who represented the Delta North senatorial district.
Reacting to Senator Nwaoboshi's death, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, expressed profound grief, describing it as a great loss for the state, the Anioma nation, and Nigeria. His Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, noted that the late senator was a proud son of Delta and a staunch advocate for the Anioma cause, whose contributions to nation-building would not be forgotten. Reports suggest the former senator slumped and was rushed to a hospital in Abuja, where he was pronounced dead.
The consecutive deaths of these two influential political figures within days of each other have cast a pall over the region, highlighting a period of significant loss for the nation's political arena.
