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 be interpreted as belittling the genuine concerns of its people.

Leaders are expected to inspire hope, especially during difficult times. Even when they disagree with criticism, their words should unite rather than divide. Public confidence in government is strengthened when leaders respond with humility, respect, and a willingness to listen.

The people of Sobe are peaceful, hardworking, and patriotic citizens who have contributed immensely to the development of Edo State. They deserve to be treated with dignity. An apology would not diminish the office of the Speaker; rather, it would demonstrate maturity, statesmanship, and respect for the people he serves.

This unfortunate episode should also remind every community that sustained development requires active civic engagement. Citizens must continue to participate in the democratic process, hold leaders accountable, and advocate peacefully for projects that improve their communities.

My appeal is simple: let us lower the political temperature, focus on addressing the issues raised by the people, and restore confidence through constructive dialogue. More importantly, I urge the Speaker, if the statement was indeed made as reported, to offer the people of Sobe a sincere apology. Such a gesture would help heal hurt feelings and reaffirm the principle that every community in Edo State deserves respect, regardless of political affiliation.

The people of Sobe deserve better. They deserve to be heard, respected, and served.

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