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OPINION: Sobe People Deserve an Apology for the Speaker's Statement

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  OPINION: Sobe People Deserve an Apology for the Speaker's Statement By Hon. Daniel Asekhame The reported response credited to the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, telling a concerned citizen to "go and contest if you want to fix the light" after an appeal over the prolonged blackout in Sobe is deeply disappointing and, if accurately reported, deserving of an apology. Public office is built on service. Citizens have every constitutional and moral right to draw the attention of their elected representatives to the challenges confronting their communities without being ridiculed or dismissed. Asking for electricity, good roads, quality schools, or employment opportunities is not a political offence—it is a legitimate expectation of governance. For years, Sobe has struggled with inadequate infrastructure and other developmental challenges. The community deserves empathy, engagement, and practical solutions, not comments that could ...

Opinion: The Growing Political Realignment in Edo State and What It Means for the Future

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  Opinion: The Growing Political Realignment in Edo State and What It Means for the Future Recent political developments in Edo State continue to demonstrate that many citizens and organized groups are rethinking their political choices. The courtesy visit by the Arewa community leadership to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is one such development that deserves attention. Beyond the symbolism, it reflects a growing desire among Nigerians to identify with political platforms they believe can provide credible leadership and a better future. What stood out during the engagement was the emphasis on inclusiveness. Rather than encouraging political activities limited to a particular ethnic or regional group, the ADC leadership advocated for a broader approach that accommodates every segment of society. This is the kind of politics Nigeria needs—one that builds bridges instead of walls and unites people around common values and shared aspirations. The discussion on fairness, equi...

Iuleha: A Community of Rich Heritage, Royal Aspiration and Enduring Political Influence

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Iuleha: A Community of Rich Heritage, Royal Aspiration and Enduring Political Influence By Hon. Daniel Asekhame Owan West, Iuleha Nestled in the heart of Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, Iuleha stands as one of the most historic and vibrant communities in the Owan axis. Rich in history, tradition and communal values, Iuleha has long been recognized as the largest conglomeration of communities in Owan West in terms of size and population, and has played a significant role in the socio-political, cultural and economic development of the area. The story of Iuleha is one of resilience, unity and identity. Oral traditions trace the origins of the people to Irimo, whose descendants established the three major sub-clans of Eruere, Aoma and Okpuje. Through shared markets, festivals, age-grade institutions and ancestral ties, these communities developed a strong sense of common identity that has endured through the centuries. At the heart of Iuleha's traditional institution is ...

Opinion: Nigeria Cannot Build Democracy on Political Contradictions

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  Opinion: Nigeria Cannot Build Democracy on Political Contradictions By Hon. Daniel Asekhame Nigeria stands at a defining moment in its democratic journey. If we truly desire a nation built on justice, accountability, and progress, then we must first be willing to look beyond our personal interests and commit ourselves to doing what is right. One of the greatest contradictions in our political system today is the disturbing spectacle of two individuals laying claim to the same executive position within a political party. Such situations have become increasingly common, creating confusion within party structures and leaving ordinary Nigerians wondering whether the political class is genuinely committed to democratic principles. Leadership is about setting examples. When politicians engage in prolonged battles over positions that should be clearly defined by party constitutions and internal democratic processes, they send the wrong message to citizens. It reinforces the percepti...

Nigeria's Judiciary at a Crossroads: When Conflicting Judgments Raise More Questions Than Answers

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  Nigeria's Judiciary at a Crossroads: When Conflicting Judgments Raise More Questions Than Answers By Hon. Daniel Asekhame The judiciary is often described as the last hope of the common man. It is the institution entrusted with the responsibility of interpreting the Constitution, safeguarding the rule of law, and ensuring that justice is dispensed fairly and impartially. However, in recent years, a growing number of Nigerians have expressed concern over what they perceive as inconsistent judicial decisions, particularly in politically sensitive cases. Across the country, court judgments involving political parties, party leadership disputes, candidate nominations, and election-related matters have often generated intense public debate. In some instances, courts of coordinate jurisdiction have delivered seemingly conflicting decisions on similar legal issues, creating uncertainty among litigants, political parties, lawyers, and the general public. These developments have raised im...

Opinion: Endless Court Battles Are Weakening Nigeria's Democracy

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Opinion: Endless Court Battles Are Weakening Nigeria's Democracy By Hon. Daniel Asekhame Nigeria's democracy is under increasing pressure, not only because of economic hardship but also because of the endless internal crises consuming many political parties. Today, several major political parties are facing leadership disputes and legal challenges. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has experienced internal disagreements that have found their way into the courts. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has also witnessed prolonged leadership and congress-related litigation in different parts of the country. Likewise, the National Democratic Coalition (NDC) has faced legal disputes over internal party matters. These cases are often accompanied by court orders, appeals, and, in some instances, conflicting judgments from courts of coordinate jurisdiction. Such situations create uncertainty, confuse party members and the public, and delay the resolution of political disputes. This hi...

Crossroads—What Every Voter Must Consider Before Casting a Vote

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  2027: Nigeria at a Crossroads—What Every Voter Must Consider Before Casting a Vote By Hon. Daniel Asekhame As Nigeria gradually approaches the 2027 general elections, the political atmosphere is becoming increasingly charged. Political parties are strategizing, alliances are being formed, old rivalries are resurfacing, and new contenders are emerging. The race has effectively begun. Yet, beyond the noise of political campaigns lies a more important question: What kind of Nigeria do we want to build? The answer does not rest solely with politicians. It lies in the hands of millions of Nigerian voters who will ultimately decide the nation's direction. For decades, elections have often been influenced by ethnicity, religion, political sentiments, and, regrettably, vote-buying. These factors have contributed to the election of leaders who sometimes fall short of the expectations of the people. If Nigeria is to move forward, voters must embrace a new culture of informed and respo...