POLITICS MUST NOT DESTROY THE DIGNITY OF THE BENIN PEOPLE.

 

I watched a video clip a few minutes ago in which three young men attempted to humiliate Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu, a prominent Benin son from a respected and noble family heritage in Benin Kingdom. 

What I saw was deeply disturbing and painful. To me, this is not merely about the humiliation of one man. It is about the humiliation of the Benin people and the values we represent. As a proud Benin man who proudly showcases the dignity, culture, and honour of our people everywhere in the world, I feel saddened by the conduct displayed in that video.

Initially, I did not want to comment because I considered it an internal party matter, especially as I am not a member of their political party. However, upon deeper reflection, I realized that this issue goes beyond party politics. It touches on our collective identity, our culture of respect, and the dignity of the Benin nation.

Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu belongs to a political party, but before politics, he was, and still is, a respected Benin son who has contributed immensely to public life. Disagreements in politics should never degenerate into acts of disrespect, intimidation, or public humiliation. Such behaviour diminishes not only the individual involved, but also the image of our people.

Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu may have offended some people. He may have stepped on toes over the years in the course of politics and public service, but this is certainly not the best way to pay him back. None of us is perfect. 

As human beings, we all make mistakes and fall short of expectations in one way or the other. We must learn to forgive one another, just as we continually pray to Almighty God for forgiveness, mercy, and grace in our own lives. 

Politics should never take away our humanity, our respect for one another, and our shared values as a people. I therefore urge the leaders of the APC in Edo South to immediately call these three young men to order and caution them against actions capable of bringing shame and division to the Benin community.

I also call on all sons and daughters of Benin Kingdom, irrespective of political affiliation, to rise and condemn this act of cowardice. Respect for elders, leaders, and fellow citizens has always been part of our identity as Benin people.

Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu does not deserve such treatment as displayed in the video clip. Political differences should be resolved through dialogue, maturity, and mutual respect, not through insults and public embarrassment.

I sincerely appeal to the leaders of their party to resolve their differences peacefully and restore decorum, unity, and respect within their ranks. We must never allow politics to destroy the values that define us as a people.

I remain, 

Senator Ehigie Uzamere