Written by Dr Dennis Osahon Aikoriogie Edoimioya.
The growing concern over the place of Edo South in the present composition of the Edo State Government can no longer be dismissed as mere political rhetoric. For many citizens, the pattern of appointments, removals, and disengagements has created a perception that Edo South is steadily losing its voice and influence at the highest levels of government. Whether intended or not, this perception deserves urgent attention because perceptions, when left unaddressed, can weaken public confidence and social cohesion.
No democratic government should allow any senatorial district to feel excluded from governance. Edo State belongs equally to Edo South, Edo Central, and Edo North. The strength of our state has always rested on justice, inclusion, and the recognition that every part of the state deserves fair representation.
The disengagements of Barr. Samson Osagie as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Felix Osemwingie as Special Adviser on Oil and Gas, and Prof. Omorodion I. Ikpomwonsa as Commissioner for Livestock Development have intensified concerns among many people in Edo South. The earlier removal of the commissioner who hails from Ovia South West Local Government Area, the local government area of the present Deputy Governor, further added to these concerns, and the very just now appointments of some permanent secretaries, where the further marginalization was evidenced. While each decision may have its own official explanation, the cumulative effect has prompted legitimate questions about whether Edo South is receiving equitable consideration in government appointments.
This is not a campaign against any individual or against the constitutional powers of the Governor. Every Governor has the authority to appoint and remove political office holders. However, constitutional power should always be exercised with political wisdom, fairness, and sensitivity to the diversity of the state. Leadership is measured not only by what is lawful but also by what builds unity and inspires confidence among all citizens.
Edo South is not a peripheral part of Edo State. It is the economic engine, the historical foundation, and the largest voting bloc in the state. Its people have consistently contributed to the political stability, economic growth, and democratic development of Edo State. Such contributions should be reflected in a government that visibly embraces every senatorial district.
When citizens begin to ask whether their district is being systematically sidelined, government should respond with openness, engagement, and evidence of inclusiveness. Ignoring such concerns risks deepening political divisions and creating avoidable resentment.
This is therefore a respectful but firm call on the Edo State Government to review the overall balance of appointments and representation. Where genuine imbalances exist, they should be corrected in the interest of fairness and unity. Where they do not exist, government should provide transparent information that reassures the public that all parts of the state are being treated equitably.
The future of Edo State cannot be built on the perception that one region matters less than another. Justice must not only be done; it must be seen to be done. Equity is not a favour. Inclusion is not a privilege. They are the pillars upon which lasting peace, trust, and good governance are built.
Edo South is not asking for preferential treatment. Edo South is asking for fairness, equal opportunity, and a government that reflects the diversity and aspirations of the entire state. A united Edo is only possible when every senatorial district sees itself as an equal stakeholder in the affairs of government.
History will remember leaders not only for the offices they held but for how fairly they treated every section of the people they were elected to serve. The time to reinforce that legacy of fairness is now.
Edo South must be great again, with our collective reasoning and unity.
OBA gha torkpere Ise.
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