Preserving the Pride of Esanland: A Clarion Call for Unity and Action in Uromi

By Rosemary Okoduwa

The timeless African proverb, “When the owner of clothes calls it rag, the stranger will use it as a footmat,” aptly captures the present predicament of Esanland, a region once known for peace and harmony, now battling the scourge of insecurity. Fear has spread across the land, causing many sons and daughters in the diaspora to hesitate in visiting home, while those at home avoid their farmlands for fear of attacks.

Amidst this troubling reality, a glimmer of hope shines through the selfless efforts of Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Patrick Ejededawe, an illustrious son of Esanland, in Edo Central, South-South Nigeria. His bold initiative to establish the Esan Mobile Police Squadron 82 is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the safety and prosperity of the land of his birth.

Not only did DCP Ejededawe donate a large expanse of land for the establishment of the squadron, but he also committed personal funds to ensure the immediate commencement of this vital project. His rare display of patriotism and leadership deserves the admiration and emulation of all well-meaning Esan sons and daughters.

We also commend the invaluable efforts of other distinguished Esan personalities, notably Fred Ojeaga and his team, who have worked tirelessly to bring this security initiative to fruition. With the collaboration of the Edo State Government and active participation of the people, there is renewed hope that the alarming state of insecurity will soon be curtailed, if not eradicated.

In light of this progress, we make a passionate appeal to all Esan sons and daughters, particularly those from Uromi community, to put aside personal interests and political differences to protect and uphold the monarchy (an institution that symbolises our unity, identity, and cultural heritage). The Onojie remains a revered custodian of our traditions and values; preserving this institution is a sacred duty for every true son and daughter of the soil.

We equally urge the Uromi community worldwide to embrace peaceful and mature methods in addressing disputes or grievances. Issues of concern can and should be resolved with wisdom and decorum, without resorting to public insults, name-calling, or divisive outbursts that bring disrepute to our collective image. Anyone harbouring resentment should please purge themselves of it for the betterment of our esteemed community.

Politics must never take precedence over the survival and prosperity of Esanland. As the saying goes, “If we do not protect our own, no stranger will.” Sadly, there are those, including some who have benefited immensely from Uromi’s goodwill, now scheming to undermine the kingdom out of selfish ambition or jealousy. Our vigilance and unity remain our strongest defence against such threats.

Furthermore, let us remember that some matters are best resolved within the confines of the community. The Onojie’s role is largely advisory and spiritual; burdening the palace with issues that should be settled at the grassroots only weakens the institution and creates unnecessary tension. We must, therefore, strive for communal dialogue and reconciliation.

At this point, I wish to express profound gratitude to all Esan sons and daughters at home and in the diaspora, who are genuinely committed to safeguarding our homeland. Your courage, sacrifice, and devotion to the peace and progress of Esanland are deeply appreciated and worthy of public recognition.

May the Almighty bless your noble efforts, frustrate the plans of those who sow discord, and crown your sacrifices with enduring peace and prosperity. Your steadfastness is the foundation upon which the future safety and greatness of Esanland will be built.

Let it be known that if we allow envy, hatred, and petty rivalries to consume us and fail to defend our kingdom, no outsider will offer us theirs. This is our land, our heritage, and our collective responsibility. Unity, love, and a shared vision of progress must take precedence over all other considerations.

On a final note, I humbly call upon every Esan man and woman, especially those of Uromi extraction, to stand together in this defining moment. Let us fight the good fight to restore dignity, security, and sanity to our beloved land, guided not by anger or insults but by love, respect, and mutual understandingcom

As the wise Esan adage goes, “Ebhonkhasibunure oichienabhor” (words once said can never be retrieved). Only then can we build a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Esanland for ourselves and generations to come.