Residents of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area (LGA) have raised concerns about the continued marginalization of the area in state governance and infrastructure development, urging newly sworn-in Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to address their grievances.
The protest, articulated in a letter from the Akoko-Edo Development Association (AEDA), highlights systemic neglect of the oldest LGA in Edo State and Nigeria as a whole. In the letter signed by Barr. (Mrs.) Mary Opii on behalf of the AEDA, the association congratulated the governor on his inauguration and applauded his initial appointments but emphasized the need for Akoko-Edo to be considered for a top position in his administration. “As His Excellency is fully aware, Akoko-Edo has suffered serial and systematic marginalization under previous administrations,” the letter stated.
The association highlighted that despite being one of the largest contributors to the governor’s electoral victory, Akoko-Edo remains the only LGA in the state that has not been split since its inception in the 1960s, a situation they argue has hindered effective governance and equitable distribution of resources. “We want to remind our Governor that available data confirmed that Akoko-Edo provided the second-largest block vote to him,” the letter noted.
The AEDA expressed fears that unless corrective measures are taken promptly, the current administration could continue the trend of marginalizing Akoko-Edo in terms of infrastructure distribution and other democratic dividends. They emphasized that the area’s persistent neglect contradicts the governor’s campaign promises to the community.
The letter also stressed the need for a proactive approach to addressing the long-standing issues facing Akoko-Edo, including its lack of representation in key state government positions. “We humbly call on the Governor to correct the continued marginalization of Akoko-Edo by giving the people their deserved share of Edo State positions and infrastructure,” it read.
The association reminded the governor of his pledge to prioritize the community and expressed hope that Akoko-Edo’s relevance would extend beyond election periods. “We sincerely look forward to a situation where Akoko-Edo will not be taken seriously only during electioneering periods,” the letter concluded.
Akoko-Edo LGA’s geographical and historical significance underscores the urgency of the demands. As one of the oldest administrative regions in Nigeria, stakeholders argue that dividing the LGA into smaller units could enhance governance and bring administrative benefits closer to the people.
