Edo North Group Demands Equity, Seeks Power Rotation

A socio-political group, Owan and Akoko-Edo Alliance called for equity and fairness in the Edo North Senatorial District, decrying what it described as prolonged dominance of the senatorial seat by the Etsako bloc.

The group, in a statement titled, “A Call for Equity, Justice and Fairness in Edo North Senatorial District,” issued by its convener, Mr Sunny Ifijen, urged the stakeholders to correct the perceived imbalance in the 2027 general elections.

Ifijen noted that while Etsako had occupied the senatorial seat for nearly 20 years, Owan and Akoko-Edo had shared just about eight years combined, a development he said undermined the principles of fairness and inclusiveness.

“It is time for either Owan or Akoko-Edo to produce the next senator. The political equation in Edo North has been heavily skewed in favour of Etsako for far too long,” he said.

He further alleged that the imbalance was not limited to the Senate, but extended to other elective and appointive positions at both state and federal levels.

According to him, “Governorship, deputy governorship, ambassadorial roles and other key appointments have consistently favoured Etsako, leaving Owan and Akoko-Edo marginalised in the power-sharing structure.”

Describing the situation as unjust, Ifijen added: “This is not unity; it is exclusion disguised as representation. For decades, two of the three major blocs in Edo North have been sidelined, while one bloc continues to dominate positions of influence.”

He drew parallels with national and state politics, arguing that the principle of equity had been instrumental in recent leadership outcomes.

“All we demand is the same principle of equity that shaped Nigeria’s leadership in 2023 and influenced the emergence of the current administration in Edo State. If fairness can work at the national and state levels, it must also apply at the senatorial district level,” he stated.

The convener, however, blamed the disruption of what he described as an informal rotation arrangement on past political developments, particularly during the administration of former governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole.

He explained that Owan and Akoko-Edo had alternated the seat between 2007 and 2015, but the pattern was later halted, allowing Etsako to retain control of the position to date.

“What was meant to be a rotational system was disrupted, and that singular action entrenched the imbalance we are confronting today,” Ifijen said.

He warned against a repeat of the trend, urging the people of Owan and Akoko-Edo to remain vigilant ahead of the 2027 elections.

“History must not be repeated. The people must not allow themselves to be deceived again,” he cautioned.

Ifijen disclosed that Owan had presented Mr. Bestman Uwadia as its preferred candidate for the senatorial seat, stressing that the agitation transcends individual ambition.

“This is not about one man; it is about correcting a historical imbalance and restoring dignity to the people of Owan and Akoko-Edo,” he added.