Governor Godwin Obaseki says he wants to learn more, do research, and impart knowledge after his eighth year in office ends in Edo.

Mr Obaseki stressed that after completing his second term in Osadebey House, he will not attempt to be a godfather.

The incumbent Edo governor assumed power in 2016 on the platform of the All Progressives Congress. In his second coming, he lost favour with his so-called godfather, former Governor Adams Oshiomhole, who, with the help of other party members, wrested the gubernatorial ticket from him, forcing Mr Obaseki to pitch his tent with the Peoples Democratic Party. Mr Obaseki won the subsequent election.

When asked in an interview with THISDAY what was next for the Edo governor, who has some months left in office, Mr Obaseki said, “Obaseki is very fortunate and has every reason to thank God. If you look at Nigeria today, I am one of the few persons who have had solid private sector experience and have been in government.

“I have been in the APC and I have been in PDP. My role is to sit back and see how I can assist and help, nurture, let people know, share my experiences with them and support them. So, I see myself going back to school, research, teach and just impact knowledge.”

Regarding entrenching leadership in Edo as a godfather, Mr Obaseki said, “There is no need to.”

The governor added, “You always mentor people, but when you want to sit and begin to direct them, that’s where the problem is. I don’t like being directed, so why should I direct anybody? If I wanted to direct somebody,

“I would not get one of Nigeria’s most accomplished lawyers to come and run the state, make sacrifices, and step down from all his enviable professional engagements just to come and be directed in Edo state.”