Toba Owojaiye reporting
Benin City, Edo State
In a recent appearance on ARISE TV, an All Progressive Congress, APC Edo gubernatorial aspirant, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu in what looks like an attempt to draw support and sympathy to his ambition, raised allegations about the marginalization and development issues in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State, his own LGA, stating that it was the turn of his LGA to produce the next Governor, as a against the general notion and clamour of power shifting to Edo central.
However, a fellow indigene of the same LGA, Hon. Chris Osa Nehikhare, the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, has offered a rebuttal, emphasizing the progress made under Governor Godwin Obaseki’s leadership.
In a statement made available to Truth Live News, Hon Nehikhare challenged Ize-Iyamu’s claims of neglect, stating, “In Today’s Edo, Government works with data, not hearsay and innuendos. For us, it’s Edo First! Always!” This response questioned the validity of Ize-Iyamu’s statements and emphasized the commitment to evidence-based governance.
The commissioner highlighted Obaseki’s achievements in Orhionmwon, citing the establishment of the Duport Midstream Company Limited.
Nehikhare asserted , “Governor Godwin Obaseki has turned Orhionmwon into a gas and petrochemical hub, leveraging on our huge gas deposits. It’s time for our people to seize these opportunities for economic mobility.” This showcased the tangible impact of the governor’s initiatives on the local economy.
Refuting Ize-Iyamu’s claims of a lack of educational institutions in Orhionmwon, Nehikhare pointed to the revitalization of the Esigie Teacher Training College.
He asserted , “He who is faithful with little is most likely faithful with much. Our leaders in Orhionmwon, including Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, should consider this when assessing their impact on the local community.” This emphasized the importance of recognizing and building upon existing resources for the community’s benefit.
Addressing the issue of electricity, Nehikhare acknowledged the challenges but commended Governor Obaseki’s efforts in initiating the Edo State Electric Power Sector Reform Bill.
He emphasized , “Edo State has become a frontier State in electricity reforms. While acknowledging challenges, Governor Obaseki’s Ossiomo Power Plant is a success story, generating uninterrupted power 24/7, with plans for expansion across the State.” This highlighted the proactive steps taken to address a critical issue.
Hon Chris Nehikhare opined that Ize Iyamu has benefited from appointments, and politics as a whole, above most in the state and entire nation, having served in many lucrative and highly placed offices. One wonders what his give – back to his community has been.
Nehikhare concluded by urging Ize-Iyamu to campaign with an understanding of the changed dynamics in Edo politics, stating, “The dynamics of politics have changed in Edo. We are a sophisticated and strategic people. I urge my brother, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, to campaign with this understanding.” This emphasizes the need for a nuanced and strategic approach in the current political landscape.
Nehikhare’s open letter not only counter the claims made but also highlighted Governor Obaseki’s transformative initiatives and the need for an updated understanding of the political dynamics in Edo.
Some have argued that the twin losses of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu against Obaseki and his perennial contesting has become a business of some sorts.