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Analyzing Nehikhare’s Open Letter to Ize Iyamu: Unmasking Obaseki’s Orhionmwon Developmental Claims
Analyzing Nehikhare’s Open Letter to Ize Iyamu: Unmasking Obaseki’s Orhionmwon Developmental Claims
By: Augustine Osayande
In my professional capacity, it is imperative to express a reluctance towards narratives that tend to target personalities instead of addressing pertinent issues. Nevertheless, this engagement with an open letter directed at Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu from the Honorable Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, representing Orhionmwon Local Government Area in the Edo State Executive Council, has left me compelled to dissect the content without dismissing it outright.
Titled “OPEN LETTER TO PASTOR OSAGIE IZE IYAMU,” the letter, penned by Nehikhare, draws attention to the commendable feat of documenting all political appointees from our Local Government—a practice worthy of archival for future references.
The crux of Nehikhare’s missive revolves around the assertion that Governor Obaseki has ushered in significant development and impactful projects in Orhionmwon Local Government Area, thereby benefiting the populace and enhancing the lives of thousands of residents. While Nehikhare contends that Obaseki’s legacies in the area are beyond reproach, I cannot help but approach this claim with a degree of skepticism.
Particularly, Nehikhare’s assertion that Governor Obaseki facilitated the establishment of the Energy Park in Egbokor Community appears to be a fallacy. Contrary to the claim, the Energy Park is part of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Park being developed by the Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB). The overarching goal is to promote a cluster model of production, fostering collaboration among enterprises to enhance productivity, efficiency, and competition. It is crucial to emphasize that similar parks are being developed across all Niger Delta States by the NCDMB.
During the test run of the Modular Refinery in the Energy Park, Governor Obaseki pledged to provide necessary road infrastructure and address the educational and healthcare needs of the area. In light of this commitment, I challenge Nehikhare to present evidence showcasing the current state of the road, schools, and healthcare facilities in Egbokor Community.
Nehikhare highlighted the refurbishment of several classroom blocks as a noteworthy accomplishment of Governor Obaseki in Orhiomnwon Local Government. However, specific details regarding the current student and faculty statistics were not provided, despite the claim that the school has become one of the best in the country. Additionally, there was a lack of information regarding the accreditation status of the various programs offered at the college by the National Commission for College of Education. During my visit to Abudu in 2023, I observed that specific sections of the institution were overlooked, giving rise to an aesthetic reminiscent of a conventional forest. This was notably in contrast to the vibrant condition observed in the surrounding areas, exemplified by the well-maintained state of my village’s Oheze-Nake traditional cemetery.
According to Mr. Nehikhare, Governor Obaseki has successfully transformed Orhionmwon into a significant gas and petrochemical hub, with the local government now hosting more than four prominent oil and gas companies. It is a commendable accomplishment, and in the spirit of transparency in this digital era, I respectfully urge him to disclose the names and precise geographical locations of these companies. Such information would be valuable for geo-referencing purposes and could be cross-referenced with the latest available financial statements.
Regrettably, Mr. Nehikhare’s attempt to highlight Governor Obaseki’s purported accomplishments in Orhionmwon Local Government seems to have encountered a misstep. Specifically, his reference to individual oil palm farms as state government achievements raises questions. To provide a more accurate representation of the governor’s impact, I encourage Mr. Nehikhare to elaborate on the government interventions that these farmers have benefited from. Additionally, it would be insightful to know the number of farmers in Orhionmwon who have reaped the rewards of such government interventions. This level of detail would contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the true impact of Governor Obaseki’s initiatives in the local community.
Finally, Mr. Nehikhare highlighted a bill passed by the State House of Assembly in September 2022 and the Ossiomo Power Plant situated at Ologbo in the Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area as Governor Obaseki’s accomplishments in Orhionmwon Local Government. However, crucial data regarding the number of communities in the local government that benefited from the government’s outgoing electricity program was not provided.
In conclusion, while Nehikhare’s open letter provides a valuable record of political appointments, critical scrutiny is essential when evaluating claims related to the development attributed to Governor Obaseki in Orhionmwon Local Government Area. It is essential to respectfully point out to Mr. Nehikhare that his name has been included with other politicians in his Open Letter who were granted the opportunity to represent our esteemed local government but have, unfortunately, fallen short of meeting the expectations of the people.
Osayande, PhD, contributed this piece from Abuja via austinelande@yahoo.com
Analyzing Nehikhare’s Open Letter to Ize Iyamu: Unmasking Obaseki’s Orhionmwon Developmental Claims
Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have repelled a Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist infiltration into Kanama town, neutralising four insurgents during a swift response operation in Borno State.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 6:00 p.m. on April 22 when troops of 159 Battalion, deployed in Kanama, responded to sounds of gunfire within the town.
On arrival, the troops reportedly discovered that terrorists had infiltrated parts of the community.
The troops immediately made contact and engaged the attackers with disciplined fire, forcing them to retreat in disarray.
Subsequent exploitation of the general area led to the neutralisation of four terrorists.
One member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) sustained injuries during the encounter and has been evacuated for medical attention.
No military equipment was lost during the operation.
Items recovered from the terrorists include two torchlight mobile phones and the sum of ₦21,000.
Security sources said the general situation across the theatre remains calm but unpredictable, while troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high.
Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents
News
Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case
Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case
The high-profile terrorism trial in Charge No. FHC/ASB/18C/2024 took a dramatic and gripping turn this week at the Federal High Court, Asaba, as explosive evidence and powerful witness testimonies continue to unfold against Mike Nwaukoni (aka “Supu”) and his alleged accomplices.
Standing trial alongside him are prominent figures including Barrister Francis Okolie, Secretary of the Ogwashi-Uku Development Association (ODA), and Mazi Elue Adigwe, the association’s Secretary-General, among others accused in connection with the violent October 12, 2023 attack on the Palace of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku.
🔴 Doctor’s Testimony Leaves Court in Silence
In what court observers have described as one of the most chilling moments of the trial so far, Dr. Ezeike Ugochukwu Godwin took the witness stand and delivered a clinical yet deeply emotional account of the injuries sustained by a vigilante operative assigned to protect the Palace.
The doctor confirmed that the victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds, including injuries to the head and upper limbs, describing in precise medical terms the severity of the trauma.
According to his testimony, the victim was brought into the emergency unit in a state of intense pain and critical distress, alongside several others wounded during the attack.
Dr. Ezeike further told the court that the patient was referred from the Divisional Police Headquarters in Ogwashi-Uku, reinforcing the official chain of response following the violent incident.
🔴 Police Investigator Details Chaos and Destruction
A day earlier, on April 21, 2026, the court heard from Inspector Ijeoma Ovat, the initial Investigating Police Officer (IPO), who painted a harrowing picture of the aftermath of the attack.
She testified about the widespread chaos, multiple casualties, and destruction that followed the invasion of the Palace during the controversial Ineh Festival. Crucially, she tendered photographic evidence showing heavily damaged police and vigilante vehicles, corroborating claims of a coordinated and violent assault.
Sources within the prosecution confirm that the damage to the vehicles was extensive and consistent with armed aggression.
🔴 Witnesses Tie Defendants to Armed
AssaultEarlier testimonies in the trial have reportedly identified the defendants as active participants, alleging they were armed with guns and other dangerous weapons during the attack. Witnesses have also pointed to Mike Nwaukoni as a central figure who allegedly instigated and coordinated the operation.
🔴 Passport Request Sparks Legal Firestorm
In a fresh development that has further intensified proceedings, lead prosecutors in the case including CSP Samuel Mallum Esq and A.I Aminu Esq from the Police Legal Directorate in Abuja have strongly opposed an application by Nwaukoni’s legal team seeking the temporary release of his international passport for overseas travel.
According to sources, the prosecution argued that granting such a request poses a serious flight risk, warning that the defendant could attempt to evade justice, seek asylum, or acquire foreign citizenship.
The prosecution also suggested that the move may be a deliberate tactic to delay the trial, particularly as significant portions of the case have already been established.
The matter has been adjourned for further consideration, with hearings expected to resume in late May, continuing into early June 2026.
🔴 Calm Returns to Ogwashi-Uku Amid Trial
Meanwhile, community sources in Ogwashi-Uku report a notable return of peace and stability since the commencement of the trial. Residents have expressed hope that the judicial process will be seen through to a swift and just conclusion, bringing lasting closure to one of the most serious security incidents in the Kingdom’s recent history.
Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case
Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have arrested a suspected ISWAP/JAS logistics supplier and intercepted a large quantity of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) concealed in a tricycle in Borno State.
Security sources said the suspect was apprehended at about 9:10 a.m. on April 21 by troops of 159 Battalion at a checkpoint within Sector 2 Area of Responsibility.
The suspect was reportedly conveying PMS concealed in 15 sacks, disguised with bags of sachet water in an attempt to evade detection.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the consignment was being transported to Kanama town and neighbouring communities around Dikwa and Bultuwa, areas believed to be within terrorist influence.
Items recovered from the suspect include a mobile phone and the sum of ₦34,950.
The sources said the suspect and recovered exhibits are in military custody for further investigation and necessary action.
They added that the interception forms part of ongoing operations aimed at disrupting terrorist logistics networks and denying them access to critical supplies across the North-East theatre.
Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno
Troops Clear Terrorist Enclaves, Recover Items in Katsina Operation
Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents
Troops Respond to Attack in Zamfara, IED Incident Recorded Without Casualties
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