Tragedy struck the political circle in Edo State on Saturday, December 20, following the death of a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Commissioner for Information, Charles Idahosa, who passed away at the age of 72.
Idahosa, who served during the administration of former Governor Lucky Igbinedion, was said to have died suddenly, leaving family members, associates and political allies in shock.
According to Vanguard, a source close to the family described his death as unexpected, noting that the late politician appeared healthy just hours before his demise.
“Daddy was full of life this morning. As usual, he came downstairs receiving people. I don’t know what happened; it is shocking,” the source said.
Fondly called Akakasiaka and Charlie Tempo, Idahosa was known for his blunt views and outspoken nature on political issues in Edo State and beyond.
He was a close ally of former Governor and ex-national chairman of the APC, Adams Oshiomhole, serving as his political adviser throughout Oshiomhole’s eight-year tenure as governor of the state.
During that period, Idahosa emerged as one of the most vocal defenders of the administration, often engaging critics in the media and political space. However, Idahosa later parted ways with Oshiomhole following the political rift between Oshiomhole and his successor, Godwin Obaseki.
He pitched his tent with Obaseki and was a key figure during the crisis that rocked the Edo APC.
In the heat of the disagreement, Idahosa authored a book titled “The Fall of the Last Godfather,” a publication widely seen as a critique of Oshiomhole’s political influence in the state.
In 2020, he defected alongside Obaseki to the Peoples Democratic Party, playing a role in the governor’s re-election campaign.
The political marriage between Idahosa and Obaseki, however, did not last long, as the late politician later fell out with the governor after his re-election.
Idahosa was among the first prominent politicians to openly declare the breakdown of their relationship.
He subsequently returned to the APC and remained active in party affairs, throwing his weight behind the party’s candidate in the last governorship election.
Notably, he was the first to release campaign jingles in support of Governor Monday Okpebholo, signalling his renewed commitment to the APC.
As of the time of filing this report, the family has yet to announce burial arrangements, while tributes are expected to pour in from political leaders, associates and admirers who knew him as a fearless political voice.
Idahosa is survived by his children and other family members.