Iruekpen community in Edo State, the home town of Hon. Marcus Onobun, a member representing Esan West, Esan Central and Igueben Federal Constituency at the national Assembly
on Friday begged the state Governor, Monday Okpevbholo to rescind his decision to demolished the house of the former speaker of the House of Assembly over an alleged Cultism related issue.

In a letter dated 13th June , 2025 , and addressed to the Governor on behalf of the community leaders and signed by Comrade Edionwele Henry,
Ogbeifun Vincent (Community Secretary), Hon. Aikhonmun Osagie (Asst. Sect), Okougbo Julius, Ogbeide Aisedion , the elders of Iruekpen disassociate ourselves from any purported call to arrest and demolish the house belonging to one of their sons.

According to the letter which was made available to New National Star state, ” We understand the need for law and order, but we implore you to consider the principle of the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. Besides, it will amount to adding insult to injury if you demolish the property of our son who has been battling with health challenges since he was voted into office to represent the good people of Esan West, Esan Central and Igueben Federal Constituency. “The devil is not as black as it is painted”. Iruekpen Community is peaceful and there is no tension as alleged.”

They however prayed that governor Monday Okpevbholo will grant their appeal and find an alternative solution that balances justice with compassion.

The letter reads, “This letter represents the collective voice of Iruekpen Community. It is on record that your very first appointment as the Governor of Edo State was to the benefit and in favour of Iruekpen Community.

“Your Chief press secretary is our son. The position of a commissioner is also given to our son, in whom we are well pleased.

“For the concern so shown to our Community, we are very grateful. The Community is full of prayers for you. We appreciate and commend your leadership and vision for entrusting these critical roles to our sons, who will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and development of Edo State. Your leadership inspires us to start clamouring for a second tenure for the APC government.

“However, we do not want our joy to be mixed with sorrow. It is on this note that we humbly appeal to your Excellency to reconsider the demolition order on the property belonging to Rt Hon. Macus Onobun, an illustrious son who has also done us proud.”