Owan West, located in Edo North, Edo State, comprises three zones: the predominant Iuleha, alongside the underrepresented minorities of Ora, Sobe and Ozalla. Since the return to democracy in 1999, the chairmanship landscape of Owan west has been marred by significant inequities. Despite the election and appointment of 11 chairmen over the years, the overwhelming majority of those positions have been held by chairmen from Iuleha, perpetuating an environment of political marginalization for Ora, Sobe and Ozalla.
The trend is glaring: out of 11 chairmen, Iuleha has dominated the position for over 21 years, while Ora, Sobe and Ozalla have been relegated to a mere four years in total.
1999-2007 – Hon Johnson Abolagba (IULEHA)
2007 caretaker – Gregory Ileogben (IULEHA)
2007 Caretaker – Esezobor (OZALLA)
2007-2013 – Daniel Asekhame (IULEHA)
2013 – Comrade Isemede (IULEHA)
2013-2015 Caretaker – Ojo Asein (ORA)
2015-2016 – Godwin Aigbodion (ORA)
2016-218 – Reginald Okun (IULAHA)
2018-2024 -Frank ilaboya (IULEHA)
2024 – Dickson Ahonsi (IULEHA)
2025 till date Acting – Ohoyon joy (IULAHA)
This persistent imbalance highlights a systemic injustice that undermines the principle of equitable representation and steering the political direction of the local government while their counterparts from Ora, Sobe and Ozalla have been almost entirely sidelined.
This cannot continue. As we approach the 2025 elections, we have a unique opportunity to rectify this historical injustice. It is imperative that we unify and advocate for a leadership that truly reflects the diverse voices of all zones within Owan West. Our collective effort should focus on ensuring that the next Chairman should rotate from Ora to Sobe, Ozalla and then Iulaha, promoting equal representation that acknowledges and respects every zones.
Let us mobilize, raise our voices, and demand a fair political arrangement. Owan West belongs to all of us, and together, we can reshape its future towards equity, fairness, and justice for every resident.
Concern citizens of Owan