Lawmakers in both Chambers of the National Assembly have been called upon to ensure their communities are properly developed and Enjoy the dividends of democracy.
The call was made by speakers at the weekend when Indigenes of Owan west and East local government areas of Edo state resident in the Federal Capital Territory held a grand reception in Honour of the House Leader of the 10th National Assembly, Professor Julius Ihonvbere at the international conference Centre , Abuja.
Speakers at the event lauded Professor Julius Ihonvbere for Impacting every community in both local governments which he represents at the Green Chamber.
In his Goodwill speech, Minister of Niger Delta Development, Prince Abubakar Momoh said he met Professor Ihonvbere when he was a senior Aide to former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
He noted that The Leader of the House is “One person that can be trusted for his commitment to duty, academic depth and vast knowledge. Ihonvbere is a passionate lawmaker that anyone would be happy to associate with.”
Chairman of the event, Former Inspector- General of Police and current Chairman of Police Service commission, Dr Solomon Arase used complimentary words to describe the House Leader.
In his words, “Professor Ihonvbere has come a long way. For me the Owan people are recognizing excellence. He is passionate about his people in Owan and want to always see Owan develop” He said despite many obstacles faced, Professor Ihonvbere has continued to Soar.
Former Edo North Senator, Kassim Oyofo, who turned 80 this Year praised Honourable Ihonvbere for his academic knowledge and how passionate he served former President Olusegun Obasanjo when he was his special adviser. While thanking Professor Ihonvbere for his good works, he tasked him to work towards uplifting the Image of the national assembly and gaining total public confidence.
Another Former Edo North Senator , Senator Yisa Braimah praised Honourable Ihonvbere for , “emerging at the 9th highest citizen of the nation”.
He charged him to ensure that the marginalization suffered by the Owan and Akoko Edo people in the politics of Edo North senatorial District.
Permanent Secretary Federal ministry of Agriculture and food security, Dr Ernest Umakhihe praised Professor Ihonvbere for putting the name of the Owan nation on the national stage in the 10 National Assembly.
He noted that the leader of the 10th House of Representatives has impacted most schools in Communities across Owan west and east local governments. He pleaded with him to use his elevated office to do more for his people.
In his appreciation speech, The house leader, Profe Julius Ihonvbere thanked God for bringing him this far. He praised his wife for doing everything to lift him up and ensure he wins his election by reaching out to even those who disagree with him.
“I am immensely grateful for this honour. This is the first time am seeing Owan people doing this. There are many challenges and only in unity that Owan Land can move forward.”
He canvassed for greater unity in Afemai land which is made up of Etsako, Owan and Akoko Edo.
He pledged to do more saying, “Since the House went on recess, my staff and I have gone to work everyday. I know my people. I must use my intellect to work for my people. I must be a candle to give light to my people and those around.“
Chairman, Event planning committee, Engineer Festus Eguaoje said the Owan nation decided to celebrate the Leader of the 10th Assembly because of his commitment to development of all communities in Owan. He lauded the Convener of the event, Deacon Patrick Ahonkhai Giwa for uniting Owan sons and daughters to celebrate one their own.
Chief Dennis Ifidon pointed out that at a time when Owan Nation was in dare need of Leadership, Professor Ihonvbere is showing leadership and filling the vacuum.
In his words, “ Prof has been a benefit to all Owan communities. He promised to to do all to ensure owan roads which are very bad shapes would be rehabilitated”
In the vote of thanks , the Convener of the event, Deacon Patrick Ahonkhai praised professor Ihonvbere for his progressive representation.
He noted that the even was successful because professor Ihonvbere was reputable among Nigeria elite and masses.
