By Kelly Odaro, PhD
Politics, by its very nature, is a contest of ideas, personalities and influence. Yet, there are moments in political history when the reaction of opponents to a particular individual reveals something deeper than ordinary rivalry. It reveals fear! Fear of a personality whose presence alone alters the dynamics of the political battlefield. In the unfolding political conversations within Edo State, one question seems to echo repeatedly: who is afraid of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu (POI)?
The question may sound rhetorical, but the signs are difficult to ignore. In recent times, subtle and not-so-subtle attempts have emerged to downplay, discredit or quietly sideline POI within the political calculations of the moment. Such reactions are not unusual in politics; they often surface when a figure commands significant grassroots appeal, political experience and the capacity to mobilise support across divides.
Pastor Ize-Iyamu is not a newcomer to the political terrain. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a seasoned political strategist, a mobiliser of people and a man deeply rooted in the political architecture of Edo State. Do you remember the Grace Group? He was widely regarded as the brain behind it. It was the platform that altered the political narrative in Edo State. He has paid his dues and lifted men politically. You know what I am insinuating.
His political journey has been marked by resilience and an ability to remain relevant even when the tides of politics shift. Few politicians in the state can boast of such enduring influence.
It is precisely this influence that may explain the unease in certain quarters. Politics thrives on competition, but it also breeds apprehension when a contender is perceived as formidable. In such circumstances, opponents sometimes resort to quiet manoeuvres aimed at diminishing the perceived strength of that individual. Yet history has shown that the more formidable a political figure becomes, the more desperate the attempts to curtail his influence.
For many observers of Edo politics, the recurring discussions around POI reflect an undeniable reality: he remains a factor that cannot easily be ignored. His connection with grassroots supporters across communities continues to give him political visibility that many politicians struggle to attain. Whether one agrees with his politics or not, his enduring relevance within Edo’s political landscape is difficult to dispute.
The larger question, however, should not simply be about fear or rivalry. It should be about representation and leadership. The people of Edo South Senatorial District, like every constituency in a democracy, deserve effective representation — representation that reflects their aspirations, protects their interests and amplifies their voices within the corridors of power.
In democratic politics, leadership should ultimately be determined by the will of the people rather than by behind-the-scenes calculations. Attempts to manipulate political outcomes or impose candidates rarely serve the long-term interests of the electorate. True democracy flourishes when individuals are allowed to test their popularity freely and when voters are given the opportunity to make their choices without undue interference.
This is why the question “Who’s afraid of POI?” resonates beyond the personality of one man. It touches on the broader principles of fairness, openness and democratic competition. If a candidate enjoys genuine support among the people, the appropriate response from political actors should not be fear or sabotage, but healthy competition.
Edo politics has always been vibrant and occasionally turbulent. Yet it has also produced leaders whose emergence was ultimately determined by the people. The coming political season offers another opportunity for the democratic process to prove its worth.
If Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu truly commands the support many believe he does, then the most democratic path is simple: allow the people to decide.
After all, in a genuine democracy, no one should be afraid of the people’s choice.Dr. Kelly Odaro is a public affairs analyst and political pundit who writes from Benin City.
