A REJOINDER TO DAN OSA-OGBEGIE, ESQ: FAIRNESS IS NOT WEAKNESS, IT IS THE FOUNDATION OF UNITY
The attempt by DAN Osa-Ogbegie, Esq. to dismiss the legitimate agitation for equitable representation in Edo South as “pedestrian” or “historically shallow” ironically exposes the very elitist political thinking that has kept many communities politically marginalized for years.
No serious-minded person disputes that Be
nin people are one under one throne and one shared heritage. However, unity does not mean domination by one section while others perpetually wait for recognition. True unity thrives on fairness, inclusion, balance, and a deliberate sense of belonging.
If indeed “we are one,” then fairness should naturally demand that other local governments within Edo South also enjoy the opportunity to represent the district at the Senate. That is the very essence behind constitutional democracy and the creation of various local governments to guarantee representation, participation, development, and political inclusion for all sections of society.
Ironically, the writer argues against what even Benin custom and tradition recognize. In our tradition, when a father passes on, inheritance is not left permanently in the hands of only one child simply because “the family is one.” Properties are shared among the children for fairness, harmony, and peace. Equity is deeply rooted in our culture.
The people advocating rotational fairness are therefore not enemies of Benin unity; they are defenders of political justice.
It is also important to address the claim regarding performance and capacity.
Hon. Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama undoubtedly has political experience, and no one denies his contributions. However, during his previous stint in office, the overwhelming concentration of projects and development was largely centered around Oredo compared to many other local governments within Edo South. This reality further strengthens the argument for broader representation and balanced development across the senatorial district.
More importantly, it would be completely wrong and politically insulting to suggest, directly or indirectly, that competence exists only within one local government. Edo South is blessed with competent, experienced, educated, and politically exposed individuals across all its local governments. The demand for fairness is therefore not a substitute for competence; rather, it is a call for competent representation that is also equitable and inclusive.
When comparing the major contenders in terms of political structure, national influence, administrative experience, public oratory, and strategic depth, many observers would objectively agree that Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu and Senator Neda Imasuen possess stronger political gravitas and broader institutional exposure.
Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, in particular, has remained one of the most experienced political administrators in Edo State. Beyond politics, he is widely respected for his maturity, calm disposition, administrative competence, and long-standing engagement with grassroots politics across Edo State.
Furthermore, political consistency and credibility matter.
It is still fresh in public memory that DAN Osa-Ogbegie, Esq. himself openly opposed the emergence of Senator Monday Okpebholo as APC governorship candidate and aligned with Asue Ighodalo of the PDP during the governorship election on the grounds of competence and intellectual capacity. It therefore becomes ironic for the same individual to now attempt to lecture others on political morality, alliances, or strategic choices.
Ultimately, this conversation should not descend into intellectual intimidation or attempts to silence those advocating fairness. The call for equitable representation is not anti-Benin, anti-Oredo, or anti-anyone. It is simply a demand for justice, balance, inclusiveness, and equal political opportunity.
Edo South deserves competence, yes ,but it also deserves fairness.
And fairness remains the strongest foundation for lasting unity.
By Evangelist Eddison Oduagbon Erhaighewu (God’s Battle Axe)
