By Williams Ayonote

The show of shame witnessed on 28th August, 2023 in Benin City during a state function in commemoration of the 60 years anniversary of Midwest region was nothing short of a disgraceful display of political arrogance and abuse of power. It was a day when the very essence of democracy and the rule of law were trampled upon, as the security aides’, under the direct orders of Governor Godwin Obaseki, openly assaulted the Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shuiabu, and disbanded the media crew attached to his office. This event can only be described as political rascality of the highest order, and it demands our unequivocal condemnation.

The fundamental question that begs to be asked is: What offense did Deputy Governor Philip Shuiabu commit? The answer, in truth, is none. As a citizen of Nigeria, he is well within his rights to aspire to any political position of his choice. His position as the Deputy Governor of Edo State does not reduce him to a mere appendage of Governor Obaseki.

It must be remembered that the ticket that brought Governor Obaseki into the Osadebe Avenue was a joint ticket, one that included both Governor Obaseki and Deputy Governor Philip Shuiabu. Shuiabu’s ambition to run or contest the 2024 Edo governorship is not a crime, and therefore, humiliating him by deploying security aides’ against him is not only wrong but also an affront to the principles of democracy and justice.

The Nigerian constitution is explicit in its provisions, and it treats all citizens as equals under the law. No one, including Governor Obaseki, is above the constitution. The abuse of power witnessed today in Benin City is a stark reminder that tyranny can rear its ugly head anywhere and at any time.

It is imperative that we, as well-meaning Edolites and Nigerians in general, unite to condemn this tyrannical and uncivilized attitude displayed by Governor Obaseki. Edo State is not the personal property of any individual; it belongs to its people, and its leadership should be exercised with fairness, justice, and respect for the rule of law.

The dehumanization of the Deputy Governor is not just an attack on one man; it is an attack on the very foundations of our democracy. It is a warning that no one is safe when those in power are willing to abuse their authority to suppress dissent and maintain their grip on power. Today, it is Philip Shuiabu, but tomorrow it could be anyone else who dares to speak up or challenge the status quo.

We, the people of Edo State, regardless of our political affiliations, must rise to this occasion and condemn the tyrannical tendencies of Governor Obaseki. We must say no to the abuse of power and call Governor Obaseki to order. Edo State has a rich history of unity and resilience, and we should not allow pettiness and wickedness to tarnish our legacy.

This is a call to action for the general public to speak truth to power, as enough is enough. We must demand accountability, transparency, and respect for the rule of law from our leaders. It is time for Edo State to stand united against tyranny and uphold the principles of democracy that our nation holds dear. Only then can we truly honor the memory of the Midwest region’s 60th anniversary and ensure a brighter future for all Edolites.

Williams Ayonote writes from FCT Abuja via wayonote82@gmail.com

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