Breaking the Cycle of Poor Leadership in Edo State

By Mike Osaghae

In the interest of our state’s betterment, Edo people must learn to take an active role in politics and leadership.

We are a land abundantly blessed—with both human and natural resources. With over 70% of arable land and a people rich in strength and intellect, we ought to have long conquered poverty and lack.

Sadly, what we are today is largely the result of a prolonged leadership deficit. Those who have had the opportunity to lead have either governed in isolation—crippled by knowledge gaps—or surrounded themselves with thieves and opportunists. Governance has been abandoned. In its place, we’ve seen vendettas, self-enrichment schemes, and an alarming disconnect from the people.

Now, we stand at a crossroads: either repeat a history marred by failure or begin the difficult work of rebuilding from the debris of poor leadership. The political class must come to terms with a fundamental truth—in a democracy, real power lies with the people. And the people must rise to this responsibility by holding both elected and appointed officials accountable.

Those tasked with managing officeholders must do so with respect for the people. Where there is confusion or controversy, transparency and truth must guide responses—not arrogance or insult to public intelligence.

To the opposition: we understand the struggle of finding your voice in times of despair. But mischief is not a strategy for winning hearts. Criticism must be rooted in purpose—aimed at fixing issues, not preying on them. And when something is done right, you must also be willing to applaud it. Opposition should be a voice of reason, not just noise.

To those still sitting on the fence, I wish I had the right words for you. But know this: silence in the face of bad governance is not neutrality—it is complicity. Our state needs your voice, your vote, your vigilance.

Edo belongs to all of us. Let us not stand idle while it suffers. Let us rise, lead, and demand better

Baron Mike writes from the hills of Ekowe