By: Ike Philip Abiagom
Community stakeholders in Oshimili North Local Government Area have declared that no indigene of Igbuzo has the moral right to question the performance of Hon. Frank Esenwah, the member representing Oshimili North Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly.
Speaking with Newsbreeze in Asaba, the leaders described as unfair and politically insensitive the recent criticisms directed at the lawmaker by a section of Igbuzo indigenes, noting that the same community held the Assembly seat for over 24 consecutive years without interruption or widespread opposition.
They maintained that Hon. Esenwah, who hails from Illah community, has so far demonstrated transparency, accountability, and commitment to even development across all communities in the constituency.
“For more than two decades, the people of Igbuzo held this position without interference from any other part of Oshimili North. It is therefore unfair for anyone to start attacking Hon. Esenwah barely two years into his tenure. He deserves support, not criticism,” one of the leaders said.
In his reaction, Chief Paul Odita, thanked the leaders, mostly Distinguished Senator Peter Nwaoboshi for show of confidence in Hon. Esenwah, assuring that the lawmaker remains focused on fulfilling his campaign promises.
“Hon. Esenwah is a servant of the people. He has continued to deliver on his mandate through visible constituency projects, community outreach, and empowerment programmes. His record speaks for itself,” Odita said.
He added that several developmental projects are ongoing across the constituency, including:
Rehabilitation of rural roads in Ebu, Ukala, and Illah communities;
Renovation of classroom blocks and school furniture donation in Akwukwu-Igbo and Atuma;
Skill acquisition programmes and youth empowerment grants for small-scale entrepreneurs; and
Support for women cooperatives to promote rural economic growth.
Odita also emphasized that Hon. Esenwah has sponsored and supported several motions in the Delta State House of Assembly aimed at improving education, infrastructure, and environmental protection in rural communities.
Community leaders further appealed to all indigenes of Oshimili North, irrespective of political or community affiliation, to rally around Hon. Esenwah in the interest of unity and sustained development.
“This is the time for cooperation, not division. Our constituency is witnessing steady progress, and we must encourage our representative to do even more,” the statement added.