From Moshood Karim
Senator representing Edo South Senatorial District, Neda Imasuen, has reassured his constituents of his unwavering commitment to pursuing policies that will attract meaningful development and democratic dividends to the district.
Imasuen gave the assurance on Friday at the “One Voice, One Vision, One Benin” Summit held in Benin City, a gathering aimed at uniting the Benin people at home and in the diaspora while charting pathways for collective progress.
Addressing the well-attended event, the lawmaker stressed that sustainable development could only be achieved through unity, collaboration, and mutual support, noting that government alone cannot shoulder the responsibility of transforming society.
“As your representative in the Senate, I carry your voices, your aspirations, and your concerns with me to the national stage,” Imasuen declared.
“I remain committed to advocating policies that will bring development to our homeland—roads that connect our villages, schools that equip our children, healthcare that preserves life, and empowerment programmes that unlock the talents of our young men and women. But government alone cannot do everything. We, as a people, must stand together and invest in ourselves, support one another, and harness the strength of unity.”
He reminded the people of their rich heritage of courage, dignity, hard work, and resilience, stressing that these values must not only be preserved but allowed to thrive in the face of modern challenges. Imasuen further donated trophies for the future Benin Unity Cup winners.
Convener of the summit, Earl Osaro Onaiwu, lauded the turnout, describing the event as a movement rather than a mere gathering.
“This summit is more than an event; it is a movement toward unity, cultural preservation, and prosperity for generations to come,” Onaiwu said. “It provides a platform for leaders, stakeholders, and community members to engage in discussions on culture, development, and the future of the Benin nation.”
On his part, former Senator Ehigie Uzamere urged the Benin people to shun attitudes that hinder growth, such as pride, envy, jealousy, and strife.
“For too long, we have allowed division and backbiting to weaken us. Hatred is more expensive than love,” Uzamere noted, quoting Nelson Mandela’s warning that resentment destroys only the one who harbours it.
“We must let go of resentment, forgive, reconcile, and walk together. We must also respect leaders in authority and desist from casting aspersions on our traditional ruler, His Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II. He is the embodiment of the dignity and spirituality of the Benin nation.”
Uzamere further echoed Abraham Lincoln’s timeless reminder that “a house divided against itself cannot stand”, urging Benins to embrace unity as the foundation for prosperity.
Other notable speakers took their turns to address the participants, pledging continued support for the Benin national.
The summit featured panel discussions, cultural showcases, and strategic sessions highlighting actionable steps for development, while celebrating the richness of Benin heritage.
The event drew prominent Benin sons and daughters from across Nigeria and the diaspora, including political leaders, technocrats, and cultural advocates, who reaffirmed their commitment to the unity and advancement of the Benin nation.
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