By DADA AYOKHAI
BENIN CITY – Dr. Francis Ilenloa Igberaese, a university don and prolific author, has published a new book titled Ematon, which examines the perceived failings of former Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration.
The 25-chapter book was presented to the public at a launch ceremony chaired by Chief Dan Orbih, former Edo State chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, who said he was a victim of the administration.
Orbih commended Igberaese for his boldness, describing Obaseki’s time in office as “tragic.” He accused the former governor of keeping “all his achievements on a laptop but not on the ground.” Orbih later launched the book with a donation of ₦2 million.
Reviewing Ematon, Prof. Harry Imhonde described the work as a must-read for those interested in leadership and governance. He said it explores how personal interests can erode political structures.
According to him, “Ematon” means one who strikes hard, cannot be bent, and remains solid like iron. He added that the book serves as a metaphor for political resistance and highlights the cost of governance driven by intimidation, ethnicity, and fear rather than public service.
Speaking at the event, Igberaese, a lecturer at Ambrose Alli University, AAU, Ekpoma, urged Governor Monday Okpebholo to recruit fresh PhD holders into academia instead of retaining professors who are due for retirement.
“They are not many, and the money to do that is already there, but funds are being misplaced. Why should a professor who retired at 70 still be earning from the system while PhD holders remain unemployed?” he asked.
“The money to pay one professor can pay three PhDs. And, with apologies to some of them, many of these professors don’t come to work. The new brains are energetic and committed. Please let us absorb them,” he appealed.
Igberaese also called on the government to revive the Institute of College of Education, ICE, closed by the previous administration, describing it as part of the legacy of late former governor Dr. Samuel Osaigbovo Ogbemudia.
