By DADA AYOKHAI
The Edo North senatorial district has experienced a unique journey of representation in the National Assembly since 1999, showcasing both triumphs and challenges.
The voters in Edo North eagerly look to the Senate, the upper legislative chamber, for voices that can drive positive change.
Currently, the entire country is in the throes of what can be described as the “scorecard fever,” a season when the serving lawmakers are expected to render an account of their stewardship to those they represent.
For the first timers, the past two years represent a learning curve and the promises of what to expect, while for the old and returning lawmakers, they only have to dive deeper to showcase their accomplishments
It is, however, disheartening that many of the elected Edo North lawmakers fell short of expectations. While their peers elsewhere disbursed empowerment items and also rolled out the number of constituency projects they were able to attract, Edo North was as quiet as a graveyard
With this in mind, let’s take a moment to examine the contributions of those who have represented the Edo North district in the Senate since 1999.
Sen. Victor Oyofo,
Sen Victor Oyofo became the first Edo North person to represent the district at the birth of the Fourth Republic in 1999
He was the first senator to serve and benefits from the two term tenure which has gradually becomes a norm.
The urbane, suave and smooth-talking geologist from South Ibie, Etsako West, found the task too daunting and soon practically lost touch with the grassroots.
Despite his successful career in the oil industry as a geologist and oil executive before joining politics, Sen Oyofo’s scorecard is abysmal
Even as the Chip Whip and membership of several Senate committees such as Petroleum, Solid Minerals, Environment, Police Affairs, Commerce, and the Niger Delta, there is hardly any.
legacy constituency project traceable to him either in South Ibie or the broader Edo North district.
Senator Yisa Braimoh
Sen Yisa Braimoh stepped up to the plate to clean the mess created by Sen Oyofo.
Indeed, there was an overwhelming concern for change.
With a solid background as a trained engineer and hotelier, he embraced the responsibility of inspiring positive change in the region.
Before making history as the first Owan person to represent the Edo North district in the Senate in 2007, Braimoh had already achieved remarkable success across various sectors.
These include serving in the following capacities:
- Special Advisor to the Minister of Transport and Aviation (1993)
- Special Advisor to the Minister of Power and Steel Development (1994)
- Member of the board of the National Maritime Authority (2000)
- Chairman of the Governing Board of the NYSC (2005 to 2007)
While in the Senate, he actively participated in critical committees that championed national growth, including National Population, Integration and Cooperation, Culture and Tourism, and Communication.
His legacy project was the building of a school for the physically challenged, first of such in South South region—supported by a leading telecom company—being a highlight.
Located in Auchi, Etsako West, this institution was commissioned by then Governor Adams Oshiomole, showcasing Braimoh’s vision for inclusive education.
Unfortunately, neglect has overshadowed this success due to political disagreements.
Nonetheless, he also initiated vital projects, such as a primary health centre in Ihievbe, his hometown, along with various other developments across Edo North that, despite facing challenges, reflect his dedication.
Sen Domingo Obende
Sen Domingo Obende made history as the first Akoko Edo person to represent the Edo North district in the Senate from May 29, 2011, to 2015.
Although his tenure is marked by limited accomplishments, his background as a successful businessman laid the foundation for his role as chairman of the Nigeria Serbia Chamber of Commerce and president of the Institute of Corporate Affairs Managers of Nigeria.
Sadly, many community projects he envisioned became mere shadows of their intent
Sen Francis Alimikhena
As a retired Nigerian Army Major and lawyer, Sen Alimikhena represents the spirit of resilience. The Bode, Etsako East, born senator also got a two term largesse ,from 2015 to 2023.
His attempt to do a third term pitched him against his former ally, Comrade Adams Oshiomole.
Nevertheless, his legacy includes commendable projects like the establishment of a kidney centre at the Auchi General Hospital and the dualization of the Auchi-Agenebode road.
He also provided boreholes and renovated primary schools across the district, leaving an indelible mark on his community.
Sen Adams Oshiomole
The fiery former NLC President, Sen Adams Oshiomole took the Edo political scene by storm and has since not relinquished his hold
As the senator representing the Edo North district in the Senate, expectations run high, fueled by his feats as a former governor
Although two years into his four-year tenure, hopes are beginning to fade that the combative politician may, after all, have other personal pursuits different from what the constituents expect of him.
