Hon. Billy Osawaru: Facts the Critics Won’t Tell You.

 

By; 

Engr. Augustine Osaghae.

How many of us truly understand that the primary responsibilities of legislators are to make laws and carry out oversight of the executive arm of government? Legislators do not control funds, nor do they award contracts. At best, they can facilitate the inclusion of constituency projects in the national budget, which are then executed by the relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

For instance, if the proposed Federal Medical Centre (FMC) at Ehor, an initiative championed by Hon. Chief Dr. Billy Adesuwa Osawaru, eventually sails through the legislative process and is signed into law by the President, it will be the Federal Ministry of Health that will execute the project. Hon. Billy Osawaru’s role would be limited to oversight, ensuring that the project is properly implemented. He cannot even suggest a contractor to handle the job. That is simply how the system works.

Are we also aware that funds were not released for capital projects in the 2025 fiscal year? Legislators cannot be blamed for this.

Hon. Chief Billy Osawaru has raised several motions on the floor of the House of Representatives, unlike his predecessor. He has sponsored numerous bills that are currently receiving legislative attention. In addition, he has actively carried out his oversight functions through the committees on which he serves and chairs. 

I have listened to him raise concerns about FERMA's non-performance and call for the Managing Director of FERMA to be summoned before the House. I have also watched him defend Oshiobaba during the budget presentation of the Federal Ministry of Works and many of his oversight engagements too numerous to outline here. He has been very vocal and active in the House of Representatives and has represented our constituency well. 

Beyond the legislative chamber, he remains accessible and present within the constituency, often participating in activities across Orhionmwon and Uhunmwode.

I have personally seen projects such as the construction and renovation of schools, as well as the installation of solar-powered boreholes/streetlights in both Uhunmwode and Orhionmwon through his efforts. He has also facilitated the construction of roads, done several life-transforming empowerment, and given jobs to constituents both locally and internationally. As an Engineer, I have seen the marvellous construction of the Evbuosa Link bridge and the channeling of the water through the constructed culvert that has improved the lives of residents, indigenes, and commuters. If these few highlighted achievements of his amazing representations are not indicators of performance, then what should we call them? What exactly do his critics want? The head of John the Baptist?

For those who have followed my engagements over time, you will know that I always stand on the side of truth, because only the truth can set us free. Unfortunately, in the arena of politics, many people are unwilling to hear the truth. We often thrive on lies, half-truths, backbiting, and the pull-him-down syndrome.

In my honest opinion, Hon. Chief Billy Osawaru should be allowed to continue his work. We must also do everything possible to foster unity within the federal constituency especially Uhunmwode LGA.

At present, there is no unity in Uhunmwode, and leadership appears weak. We often pretend that all is well, but beneath the surface, the reality is different. When we meet at gatherings, we exchange pleasantries and banter, but the truth is that genuine love and unity are lacking due to the inordinate ambition to outsmart one another.

Uhunmwode Local Government Area cannot grow if we continue on this path.

May God help us all. 

 Austin Osaghae, a COREN Register Engineer and an APC Chieftain, writes from Ehor Ward, Uhunmwode Local Government Area.