ORHIONMWON COUNCIL CHAIRMAN CONVENES STAKEHOLDERS’ MEETING, CALLS FOR PEACE AND UNITY, CONDEMNS ATTACKS ON NDDC COMMISSIONER

By Our Reporter

ONITSHA — The Executive Chairman of Orhionmwon Local Government Council, Hon. Thompson Osagie, has urged residents of the area, especially the youth, to embrace peace, unity and civil discourse as the foundation for sustainable development.

Osagie made the call on Friday during a stakeholders’ meeting held with youth leaders, elders, community representatives and political stakeholders in Obozogbe Niro Community. Discussions centered on issues affecting peace, unity and progress in Orhionmwon LGA.

Condemns social media attacks on NDDC Commissioner
A major focus of the meeting was the recent wave of online attacks against the Edo State Representative on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Rt. Hon. Patrick Aisowieren.

The Chairman described the sustained insults, misinformation and character assassination as “unfortunate, unnecessary and inconsistent with the values of responsible political participation.”

“Leaders who have devoted their lives to the service of the people deserve constructive criticism where necessary, but should never become victims of unwarranted abuse, personal vendettas, or coordinated attempts to tarnish their hard-earned reputations,” Osagie said.

He noted that Aisowieren’s public service record spans from councillor to member of the Edo State House of Assembly, member of the House of Representatives, and now Edo State Representative on the NDDC Board.

“His contributions to the development of our people are visible and undeniable. He has continued to distinguish himself as a leader whose passion for public service transcends political interests. Such a personality deserves encouragement and appreciation rather than unwarranted hostility and incessant attacks,” the Chairman stated.

Drawing from his working relationship with the NDDC Commissioner, Osagie described Aisowieren as “compassionate, selfless, and accommodating” and said he remains open to dialogue with members of the public.

“If anyone has concerns regarding the actions or decisions of any leader, including Rt. Hon. Patrick Aisowieren, the honourable approach is to seek dialogue. I know him to be a man who listens, values differing opinions, and is always prepared to engage sincerely,” he said.

Dissociates self from divisive posts
Osagie said he was compelled to address the issue publicly after his name was repeatedly tagged in offensive publications on social media, an act he said was intended to create an impression of division among Orhionmwon’s political leadership.

He firmly dissociated himself from “hatred, blackmail and character assassination” and called on all sons and daughters of Orhionmwon to reject divisive tendencies.

“As Chairman, I owe our people a duty to promote peaceful coexistence. Development is a collective responsibility, and we cannot afford to dissipate our energy attacking one another when our attention should be focused on building a stronger, more prosperous Orhionmwon,” he added.

Stakeholders pass vote of confidence in Governor Okpebholo
The meeting concluded with the unanimous adoption of a Vote of Confidence in the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo.

Stakeholders commended the Governor for what they described as purposeful leadership, developmental strides across the state, and commitment to inclusive governance and peaceful coexistence.

They reaffirmed their support for the Governor’s SHINE Agenda and for Chairman Osagie’s peace-building efforts, and called on all residents to shun divisive politics and embrace reconciliation for the growth and stability of Orhionmwon.