Owan Conscience Takes Unity Campaign to Grassroots in Owan East

By Rosemary Okoduwa

A socio-cultural group, Owan Conscience, has intensified efforts to deepen political awareness and foster unity among the people of Owan, Edo State, with a series of sensitization visits to communities in Owan East Local Government Area.

The outreach, which began two weeks ago, provided a platform for meaningful engagement between the group and residents, as critical issues affecting the Owan people were discussed. Community members also had the opportunity to voice their concerns and share challenges facing their areas.

Led by its chairman, Barr. Richard Ofen-Imu, the group commenced its tour at Ohanmi community, where it was warmly received by chiefs and elders. Addressing the gathering, Ofen-Imu said the initiative was driven by the urgent need to address what he described as the persistent political marginalisation of Owan people and to galvanise them towards a common, progressive goal.

He stressed that unity remains the most potent tool for overcoming the challenges facing the region, urging residents to set aside differences and work collectively for the advancement of Owan.

Community representatives at Ohanmi commended the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful, while pledging to cascade the message to the grassroots.

The team proceeded to Igue-Sale community, where they were hosted by the council of chiefs, elders, and youth leaders. Reiterating the group’s core message, Ofen-Imu emphasised the need for collective action in the pursuit of political relevance and inclusion.

Responding, community spokespersons including a chief, an elder, and the youth leader said the initiative aligned with their long-standing aspirations for political liberation and assured the group of their support.

At Ake community, where the delegation was received by the head chief, Chief Ohiorenoya, and his subjects, the message of unity and collective purpose was again underscored. Residents applauded the group’s efforts and pledged their commitment to the cause, while also appealing for intervention in addressing the community’s lack of potable water.

The sensitization train also moved to Ikhin community, where the clan head and residents welcomed the group. Ofen-Imu expressed appreciation for the reception and took time to highlight the historical and ongoing challenges confronting Owan people. He called for sustained cooperation and unity to reposition the region for greater opportunities.
Community members, in their response, lauded the initiative and pledged to align with the vision and aspirations of Owan Conscience.

The tour concluded at Uroe community, where a large crowd gathered to receive the delegation. Re-echoing the central theme of unity, Ofen-Imu urged residents to prioritise the collective interest of Owan above partisan affiliations.

Spokespersons in the community described the outreach as long overdue and expressed readiness to embrace the group’s vision, committing to reflect it in their political choices and civic engagement.

Through the ongoing sensitization drive, Owan Conscience continues to position itself as a rallying force for unity, inclusion, and a renewed push for political relevance across Owan communities.