In its quest to foster unity and development in Owan and liberate her people from the age-long political marginalisation, a pan Owan socio-cultural group, Owan Conscience, over the weekend continued its town hall engagement with the communities in Owan East LGA of Edo State.
The engagement which is the third in the series, covered Arokho, Igue-Oke and Ikao communities.
The popular group, led by the chairman of the Association, Barr. Richard Ofen-Imu had a Star-studded delegation,including the secretary of the body, Comr Mike Igaga, a renowned chartered account, Chief Richard Ehimigbai, retired permanent Secretary, Pst Chris Abode. Others include Mr Patrick Omoruan, Rev.Chris Aigbokhai, Dcn Nathaniel Osamende, Chief Agbebaku Izobo, Rev Friday Asekhamen and Comr. Austine Ayeni.
The exercise afforded the group the opportunity to interact with the locals and beam searchlight on the politics and developmental concerns of the Owan people.
The group had its first port of call at Arokho community where they were received by the chiefs, elders, Women and youth of the community.
Setting the ball in motion for the occasion, the Chairman of Owan Conscience, Barr. Richard Ofen-Imu, said the engagement became necessary in view of the myriad of issues plaquing Owan political advancement, unity and development in recent years. He observed with distress the relegation of Owan to the dungeon of Edo North politics with deprivation of political offices and other factors of development.
He stressed the need for the people to set aside pecuniary gains and partisan affinity, and work for the good of Owan while bracing up to challenge status quo
Barr. Ofen-imu also highlighted the laudable achievements of the association since inception.The message was well received by the people as they vowed to commit themselves to the cause.
The train thereafter moved to Igue-Oke where the team was hosted by the inhabitants of the community. The thrust of the message was again re-echoed by Barr. Richard Ofen-Imu.
The spokespersons for the community, expressed delight with the initiative and also seize the opportunity to voice their concerns.
Also in the itenery was Ikao community where the team was received in the waiting arms of the people The message was presented by Barr. Ofen-Imu, calling on the people to unite and rise above partisan loyalty to the interest of Owan.
The speakers while appreciating the body for the initiative, pledged their cooperation and support to the struggle.
With this exercise, Owan Conscience is expectant that this initiative would stimulate the desired social change that will engender in political landscape where fairness, unity and accelerated development would thrive