By John Mayaki
Throughout the four years of the last the Assembly in Edo State, 14 elected members of the House of Assembly were unjustly prevented from inauguration and sitting, thanks to the actions of Governor Godwin Obaseki, who oversaw this anti-democratic plot.
It all began with the Speaker’s position, which became a contentious issue between loyalists of former Governor Adams Oshiomhole and those favored by Governor Godwin Obaseki. Who would have imagined that Obaseki would resort to such ruthless tactics in pursuing his political differences, even against his benefactor, Adams Oshiomhole?
In his quest to have the Assembly under his control, Obaseki secretly contacted a handful of his loyalists who had won elections into the House and coerced them into presenting themselves for inauguration.
However, realizing that their numbers were insufficient, he allegedly enlisted the assistance of his Deputy to forcibly induct a few others into the improper and ill-fated inauguration.
This resulted in the inappropriate inauguration of about 9 out of the 24 members, with some appearing in three-quarter trousers, borrowed jackets, and even bathroom slippers.
Those who stood their ground and refused to succumb to Obaseki’s pressure were persecuted. They were chased down and assaulted by thugs under police protection when they planned a press conference at a hotel. After being beaten and arrested, they had to seek refuge in “Macedonia” and others in “Thessalonica” for their own safety and security.
Despite the challenges they faced, these men remained resolute in their commitment to their party and its leadership. They endured the humiliation inflicted upon them and their families. Today, it may seem that they have lost, but in reality, they are the true victors against tyranny and oppression.
At one point, their seats were declared vacant, and despite their efforts, the court refused to hear their case until their tenure had expired. Now, with the presidential and National Assembly elections behind us, some of them have been re-elected to the State House of Assembly, while others were not as fortunate. The question now arises: how can we honor these men?
Shall they go unrecognized and unrewarded for their sacrifices?
It is essential that we recognize the courage and resilience displayed by the 14 members of the Edo State House of Assembly who faced adversity and stood firm in the face of injustice. They endured persecution, threats, and even displacement for the sake of upholding democratic principles and their party’s ideals.
Now that the elections have passed and some have been re-elected while others may not have been as fortunate, it is our responsibility to honor their unwavering commitment and sacrifice. These individuals deserve to be acknowledged and celebrated for their dedication to the cause, even in the face of tremendous adversity.
Let us not allow their efforts to go unnoticed or their sacrifices to be in vain. It is our duty to ensure that they are rewarded, not only for their personal courage but also for the symbolic victory they have achieved against tyranny and oppression.
As we move forward, let us find ways to honor these men, whether through public recognition, commendations, or other forms of appreciation. Their resilience and determination serve as an inspiration to all those who believe in democracy and the pursuit of justice.
In doing so, we send a powerful message that standing up for what is right and just will always be recognized and celebrated. These 14 members of the Edo State House of Assembly have exemplified the strength of character and unwavering commitment that should be celebrated and rewarded.
Edo Assembly 14 must not go an empty-handed!
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