By Simeon OSAJIE
A group known as Aiguobasinmwin Movement Worldwide, on Wednesday cautioned political actors against imposing a candidate for the 2027 Edo South Senatorial District election of Edo State.
The President and Secretary of the group, Mr. Iyamu Osaro Culture and Ewere Uhunoma, President and Secretary, respectively, made this known in a statement signed and made available to newsmen in Benin, the state capital.
The socio-cultural group stated that the people of Edo South Senatorial District will reject skewed political arrangements or compensation politics.
The group warned political actors, including FCT minister Nyesom Wike, against interfering in Edo South’s political arrangement.
Mr. Iyamu advised Nyesom Wike to stay clear of Edo South’s internal political affairs, emphasizing it’s not a field for external experimentation.
The statement reads, “As the adage rightly states, to be forewarned is to be forearmed. The Edo South Senatorial District occupies a position of historic, cultural, and political significance to the people of Benin.
“Regrettably, recent experiences have shown that our representations in the National Assembly, particularly in the Senate, have failed to meet the expectations and aspirations of our people.
“Let it be clearly stated that Edo South will not accept skewed political arrangements or compensation politics disguised as representation.
“We categorically reject the idea of Ogbeide Ihama representing Edo South in the Senate because his political conduct during the 2020 Edo State Governorship election raises serious concerns/questions. At a critical moment, he abandoned his own gubernatorial ambition and openly aligned with Mr Obaseki, Former Governor of Edo State, an action that many Edo South people considered as betrayal of trust.
“Furthermore, the slogan ‘Ogbeide is coming’ invites legitimate scrutiny. Sadly, during the highly sensitive episode involving Obaseki, the reported handling of Benin artifacts and issues touching on revered Benin Royal institution, Ogbeide Ihama was conspicuously silent. The Benin people deserve clarity. The Big Question Is That Where Did Ogbeide Ihama Stand???, The Answer Is That Ogbeide Ihama Stood and Still Standing Like Someone Who Doesn’t Know His Root. Let it be noted that politics thrives on credibility and grassroots legitimacy.”
The group added that; “available facts indicate that Nyesom Wike is the person projecting Ogbeide Ihama, and he lacks the moral and political ground within Edo South to impose or nominate a senatorial candidate.
“Let it be noted that Edo South is not a political field for external experimentation, and Nyesom Wike is strongly advised to stay clear from our internal political affairs. Equally, unacceptable senatorial aspirants or candidates are a repeat of ineffective representation.
“In all honesty, Edo South people cannot endure another four years of underperformance, as witnessed under Senator Neda Imasuen, whose election was largely driven by sympathy and the goodwill surrounding Peter Obi rather than proven capacity for effective legislative engagement.
“It is no longer news that Edo South requires a senator with influence, courage, and tangible networks. Someone who leverages relationships and access to attract development, empowerment, and meaningful federal presence to his or her constituency.
“The Edo South Senatorial ticket must never be reduced to a consolation prize or political compensation.It must be earned by individuals committed to justice, accountability, cultural respect, and genuine service to the people.
“Consequently, this statement serves as a clear message to Nyesom Wike, Ogbeide Ihama, and all promoters of his anointment. Therefore, we urge you to abandon this plan immediately.
It is worthy to state that Edo South is politically conscious, historically grounded, and resolute. Thus, any attempt to impose an unfit candidate will fail.The era of imposed leadership in Edo South is over.” Iyamu said.