Fair Representation for Etsako West Constituency 1: A Call For Strength, Not Weakness

_By Comrade Muhammed Jamiu Gavin_

First, let me extend my heartfelt congratulations to the people of Constituency 1 on the recent receipt of three new transformers and the streetlights project. These initiatives, part of Hon. Hussein Lecky’s commendable constituency projects, continue to address our community’s pressing needs.

However, I must add my voice to the contentious issues surrounding the rumored Chairmanship position. It is a widely accepted political agreement that Auchi is entitled to serve two full terms, but on both occasions, these terms have been prematurely interrupted. For us, the grassroots voters and everyday citizens, there has never been any doubt about where the Chairmanship rightly belongs. In our eyes, and in line with the principles of our party, Auchi remains the rightful home for this role.

Etsako West Local Government is politically divided into two legislative constituencies, reflecting its landmass and population, with 12 wards in total. Constituency 1 comprises seven wards, while Constituency 2 has five. This division clearly places a greater burden of responsibility on Constituency 1 to serve its people. It follows, therefore, that Constituency 1 should receive proportional appointments to meet the needs of its larger population.

Further breaking this down, Constituency 1 is divided into two political blocs: Auchi, with four wards, and Club 3, with three. This demographic split is significant in discussions of political appointments and resource allocation.

Now, let us consider the matter of state commissioner positions. It is rumored that Etsako West has been allocated two commissioner slots across its two constituencies. Constituency 2 has already received one of these appointments. In the spirit of fairness and equity, the other commissioner position should rightfully be assigned to Constituency 1.

The critical question then arises: if Constituency 1 is to receive the commissioner slot, where should it go? Auchi, with its four wards, the largest concentration of wards in the constituency stands out as the most deserving.

Let us also examine the current distribution of strategic positions. Club 3 already holds two key appointments: the Chief of Staff to the Governor and the Managing Director of Edo-owned television and radio stations. These are influential roles critical to the governance of our state. For balance and fairness, Auchi, as the larger bloc within Constituency 1, should receive the commissioner position.

Turning to the Chairmanship, it is perplexing that this issue has become a subject of contention. Auchi has yet to complete its two full terms as previously agreed under existing political arrangements. By all accounts, this matter should not be up for debate.

What seems to be at stake here is not the Chairmanship but the Commissionership. Auchi has already secured the Chairmanship; now, it should also be considered for the commissioner role. If Constituency 2 is represented in the state cabinet, Constituency 1 must be equally represented. Moreover, if Club 3 has seats in the cabinet, it is only fair that Auchi is granted the same opportunity.

In conclusion, fairness, equity, and historical agreements must guide our political decisions. Let us ensure that these principles prevail as we navigate these important discussions.

This is my humble perspective.

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