By Milcah Tanimu
A pro-democracy organization, Edo People For Good Governance, has issued a warning to former Governor Adams Oshiomhole, urging him to stop using tribal rhetoric as a tool for political manipulation ahead of the Edo State governorship election set for September 21, 2024.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the group, through its coordinator, Comrade Bright Omorodion, accused Oshiomhole of exploiting tribal sentiments to maintain his political influence while undermining the unity of Edo State. The group claimed that Oshiomhole has historically leveraged the Owan and Akoko Edo tribes for his personal and political gains within the Edo North senatorial district.
Despite Oshiomhole’s public claims of advocating for the interests of Edo North, the group alleges that his actions have disproportionately benefited his own Etsako tribe, which represents only 9% of the state’s population.
“Since entering Edo State politics in 2008, Oshiomhole has used his Etsako tribe to suppress other tribes. Federal appointments and political positions meant to benefit the entire state have been monopolized by Etsako, leaving Owan, Akoko Edo, and other tribes marginalized,” the group stated.
The group further criticized Oshiomhole for monopolizing key federal appointments since 2015, including positions such as Federal Minister, EFCC Secretary, and slots in the Police Service Commission, all of which have been filled by individuals from the Etsako tribe due to his influence. This, they argue, has created significant imbalances in political representation and access to resources.
The group also condemned Oshiomhole’s recent interview on ARISE TV, where he dismissed the ongoing hunger protests and described the organizers as “faceless mobs.” They highlighted the irony of Oshiomhole’s current stance, given his past as a labor leader who championed the causes of ordinary Nigerians.
The group called on the people of Edo North to resist tribal manipulation and demand fair representation in the upcoming election. They emphasized the importance of unity and warned against allowing tribal divisions to dictate the political future of the state.