From Moshood Karim
I warmly commend Mr Chris Osa Nehikhare, former Commissioner for Information in Edo State, for his forthright, principled and courageous intervention in defence of truth, justice and the collective dignity of Edo South Senatorial District.
His article is not only a lucid account of recent events at the Senate but also a timely reminder that leadership must, at critical moments, rise above political convenience to protect the honour and interests of the people.
Mr Nehikhare’s write-up accurately captures the spirit, resolve and sense of responsibility that guided Senator Neda Imasuen’s actions during the confirmation process of Barrister Henry Idahagbon. As he rightly noted, the Senator’s stand was neither personal nor partisan; it was firmly rooted in the defence of Edo South against an avoidable attempt at public humiliation.
Senator Imasuen acted, as he consistently does, as a trustee of the people’s mandate, fully aware that silence in the face of injustice would amount to complicity.
Beyond this singular episode, it is important to emphasise that Senator Neda Imasuen’s representation of Edo South at the National Assembly has been defined by substance, courage and measurable legislative engagement.
As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct and Public Petitions, he has played a pivotal role in strengthening legislative oversight, promoting accountability in public office and ensuring that citizens’ grievances against government agencies receive fair and transparent hearings.
Under his leadership, the committee has provided many Nigerians, including Edo South constituents, with access to justice and redress that might otherwise have been denied.
In addition, Senator Imasuen has been an active contributor to debates on national cohesion, constitutionalism, electoral reforms and good governance. He has sponsored and supported bills and motions aimed at strengthening democratic institutions, protecting citizens’ rights and improving service delivery across key sectors.
His interventions on the floor of the Senate have consistently reflected a deep understanding of the law, respect for due process and an unwavering commitment to equity among Nigeria’s diverse regions.
On the constituency front, the Senator has maintained steady engagement with Edo South communities, facilitating empowerment initiatives, supporting education and skills development, and using his legislative platform to attract federal attention to critical infrastructural and socio-economic needs of the district.
These efforts underscore the fact that his advocacy in Abuja is complemented by tangible concern for the everyday realities of his constituents at home.
I therefore agree entirely with Mr Nehikhare’s conclusion: Edo South has a voice, and that voice is being heard clearly, confidently and responsibly through Senator Neda Imasuen.
His actions reaffirm the enduring Benin and Edo South values of dignity, resistance to injustice and collective solidarity.
Edo South will neither be marginalised nor humiliated, and under Senator Imasuen’s watch, its interests will continue to be defended with courage, clarity and conviction.
Moshood Karim is the Media Aide to Senator Neda Imasuen