By EHIGIMETOR IGBAUGBA

The Ijaw communities in Edo have berated the lawmaker representing Ovia Federal Constituency, Ms Omosede Igbinedion (APC – Edo) for opposing the creation of Toru State.

This is contained in a statement on Monday in Calabar by the Izon-Ibe Dragnet, a Socio-cultural organisation.

Bandua Itebetebe, Spokesperson for the organisation noted that creation of Toru state would address the long-term neglect and marginalisation of Ijaws in the state.

He warned that the organisation would not hesitate to treat the lawmaker as an outcast in Ijaw land, if she continued to oppose everything that would bring development to the people.

“In spite of the lawmaker’s opposition to the Ijaws, we have always supported all her political trajectory.

“It is therefore surprising to see the lawmaker raise a motion at the floor of the Green Chamber advising against support for the creation of Toru state.

“This motion is seen as a betrayal of the trust reposed in her by the Ijaw people of Ovia Northeast/Ovia Southwest Federal Constituency.

“The proposed Toru state is a legitimate demand of the Ijaw people aimed at addressing the long-standing marginalisation and underdevelopment of the region.

“Omosede Igbinedion’s claim that the creation of the state will threaten the territorial integrity of Edo is baseless and unfounded,” he said.

The Izon-Ibe Dragnet spokesperson also advised the lawmaker to channel her energy towards delivering the dividends of democracy to her constituents.

According to him, Ovia federal constituency is currently facing severe challenges of insecurity, killings, and kidnapping.

“One would expect that as a representative, addressing the challenges should be a priority to her, rather than presenting an unintelligent presentation without empirical and historical evidence to back her motion in the floor of the House.”

Itebetebe therefore urged the National Assembly to reject the lawmaker’s motion and allow the democratic process to unfold.

“The creation of Toru state is a matter of national importance, and it is imperative that the voices of the Ijaw people are heard and respected,” added. (NAN)