Aiguobasinmwin Movement Worldwide, a socio-political and cultural group rooted in Benin, has voiced strong accusations against Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo, alleging a pattern of marginalization targeting the Benin people in favor of the Esan community.
The group claims that recent decisions made by the governor demonstrate a clear bias in appointments and resource allocation, raising concerns about tribal politics influencing governance.
In a press statement released Tuesday morning, the Aiguobasinmwin Movement Worldwide led by Mr. Iyamu Osaro Culture (President), Mr. Osayuki-Osa Benson (Secretary General), and Mr. Monday Ohuimumwen JP (Diaspora Coordinator), highlighted specific instances that fueled their accusations.
According to the group, the initial removal of Barrister Felix Iserere from his position as Special Adviser was met with cautious optimism, but this sentiment quickly dissipated with subsequent events.
The dismissal of Mrs. Maureen Ekhoragbon as the Chairman of the Board of Technical and Vocational Education, followed by the appointment of Mrs. Onomen Goodness Briggs, an Esan woman, as her replacement, ignited serious concerns. Further fueling the group’s suspicion was the replacement of Dr. Samson Osagie.
The Aiguobasinmwin Movement Worldwide asserts that these actions, taken together, paint a disturbing picture of systemic bias against the Benin people.
The group called for a thorough review of Governor Okpebholo’s policies and appointments to ensure fair representation and equitable distribution of resources among all ethnic groups in Edo State. The group also vowed to continue monitoring the situation and advocating for the rights and interests of the Benin community, urging the governor to address their concerns and prioritize inclusivity in his administration.
“Similarly, Tinyan Otuomagie, who was the CEO/MD of Edo Line was replaced with Esan person. Sadly, just yesterday, we saw a letter signed by SSG stating the appointment of Patrick Aguinede as replacement for Destiny Ebagua as Benin man who was the GM, Edo State Signage & Advertisement Agency(EDSAA).
“It is worthy to note that we have been watching Governor Monday Okpebholo acts against the Benins through the lens of tribal politics, particularly after we rejected the IYALOJA concept, his attitude towards the Benin Nation changed.
The group reiterated the need for Edo South APC leaders and stakeholders “to rise above partisan interests and address the biasness being exhibited by the Okpebholo led administration against the Benin Nation and her people.”
