What does Ewohimi really want from its sister community, Ewatto, asks Emmanuel Egbe Ehiawaguan

In this piece, Emmanuel Ehiawaguan contends that Ewatto has consistently demonstrated political and financial support for Ewohimi in the spirit of brotherhood but receives little appreciation in return. The author defends Senator Joseph Igiagbe Ikpea against criticism, urging fairness, patience and stronger unity among Esan communities to foster mutual respect, development and lasting progress.

Politically, Ewatto Community has always done its part. From the onset, we have supported all sons and daughters of Ewohimi seeking political positions.

Even in the last gubernatorial election in Edo State, despite the odds, Ewatto voted massively to support our brother, Asue Ighodalo. As a result, PDP won with a landslide victory against APC in Ewatto. Yet, some voices from Ewohimi still say Ewatto should “bow our heads for them to cut us politically.”

The Ikpea family, in particular, has supported Ewohimi Community more than any other community in Esanland. 
We all recall how the Ikpea family contributed millions of naira toward building the new palace before the coronation of the new Onojie of Ewohimi, even when our own community was also in need of support. 
More recently, the Ikpea family also supported Ewohimi Community with millions for the launch of the Ewohimi Security Network, even when Ewatto is yet to raise funds for our own. All of this was done in the spirit of brotherhood and peace between both communities.

Ewohimi has rarely called on Ewatto for support, and when we decline, we are painted as the problem. Yet, they expect us to always remain behind.

Now, Senator Joseph Igiagbe Ikpea has barely spent one year in the Senate. It is public knowledge that the budget was passed before his election. It is therefore unfair to see some Ewohimi people on social media sharing sponsored posts dragging Senator Ikpea over the deplorable state of roads across Esan communities.

Let it be known: *Senator Joseph Igiagbe Ikpea has assured us that modalities are already in place to fix all dilapidated roads.* Due process must be followed. There are also palliative measures being put in place to address the situation in the interim.

Those political sycophants seeking public sympathy and attention are now calling for heads. Sadly, some of our brothers who should stand for the truth have joined in spreading fake and diminishing posts just to paint the Senator black.

The return of *Senator Joseph Igiagbe Ikpea to the Red Chamber is certain*. True sons and daughters of Esanland are clamouring for his return, and his victory at the polls is imminent.

Esan has supported him, and we will continue to do so. All he needs from us now is patience and support. With time, Senator Ikpea will write Esan’s name in gold through developmental strides.

Ewatto people value peace, unity and brotherhood, and we will continue to support one another for the progress of Esanland. 
It is better for all of us to understand this.

To those political sycophants disguising as our political brothers: it is time to wake up to reality and support what is good for once.

Hon. Emmanuel Egbe Ehiawaguan, Founder/convener : Ewatto voice for the voiceless