THE TRUTH MATTERS: WHY THE ATTACKS ON THE OKPEBHOLO-IZE-IYAMU ALLIANCE ARE FAILING
The recent wave of speculation and orchestrated anxiety surrounding Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu (POI) is not a sign of his weakness, but a testament to his enduring influence. These coordinated attacks are deliberate products of political mischief, designed to create a rift where none exists. However, these efforts are failing because they are built on a foundation of lies that cannot withstand the weight of the facts.
*SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY VS. ANONYMOUS SLANDER*
The most reckless attempt by these detractors is the effort to label POI a “fake pastor.” This is not just crass, hollow, and shallow; it is a direct assault on one of Nigeria’s most respected religious institutions.
Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu is the Provincial Pastor in Charge (PICP) of Region 16, Edo State, within the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). This is a position of immense spiritual, administrative, and moral responsibility; one that is both earned and verifiable. Attempts to question his standing only expose the ignorance and bad faith of anonymous writers who hide behind borrowed names for fear of legal consequences.
*A BOND BUILT ON MUTUAL RESPECT, NOT CONTRACTS*
The alliance between Pastor Ize-Iyamu and Governor Monday Okpebholo is rooted in a shared vision for Edo State, not transactional politics. Suggestions that POI has a "quarrel" with the Governor or Minister Nyesom Wike are false and malicious.
Furthermore, claims that Pastor Ize-Iyamu received vehicles, contracts, or personal benefits from the Governor are laughable. Such allegations betray a total lack of understanding of the principled, long-standing relationship between both men. POI has no hand in any article intended to malign the office of the Governor; he is, in fact, one of the administration's most steadfast supporters.
*UNWAVERING LOYALTY TO THE APC*
The insinuation that POI is secretly aligned with opposition forces or engaged in anti-party activity is another convenient fiction. Pastor Ize-Iyamu is a disciplined party man who understands structure, loyalty, and timing. The suggestion that he would suddenly abandon these principles is as absurd as it is unserious.
This loyalty was most visible during the Tinubu-Shettima presidential campaign, where POI served as a committed frontliner. His record as a "kingmaker" also remains unmatched, having played significant roles in the emergence of Governors Lucky Igbinedion, Adams Oshiomhole, and Monday Okpebholo; leaders from all three senatorial districts. This record alone proves his detribalized outlook and statewide acceptability.
*WHY THE CRITICS ARE SCARED*
Critics who recycle the 2016 and 2020 governorship elections as proof of "irrelevance" are being intellectually dishonest. Those outcomes were products of specific political circumstances and were never a reflection of his true popularity.
What we are seeing today is simple: Fear. Many well-meaning Edo South leaders continue to urge POI to contest future elections. His decision to speak only after wide consultations has unsettled those who prematurely claim entitlement to power.
*STABILITY OVER SPECTACLE*
Governor Monday Okpebholo remains focused on governance, delivering tangible development and infrastructure across Edo State. Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu’s foremost priority is the success of this administration, because he understands that effective leadership, not noise or spectacle, is what truly serves the people.
Cheap blackmail and anonymous threats will not distract either man. If anything, these falsehoods have only strengthened their bond, while exposing the desperation of those shouting from the sidelines. The alliance stands, and the truth remains.
_Egie Eweka, PhD., writes from Oredo Local Government Area, Edo State._
