By Dave Ikhueoya
THE recent allegations of cultism leveled against Rt. Hon. Marcus Onobun, the respected former Speaker of Edo State House of Assembly and the member of the 10th National Assembly representing Esan Central/Esan West/Igueben Federal Constituency of Edo State, is a patent falsehood meant to soil his hard earned reputation.
As a prominent figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Onobun has been a shining armour and oasis of political re-engineering that the current administration led by Governor Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has elected to decimate. The allegations of cultism leveled against him are part of a larger effort to silence opposition voices and undermine the democratic process in Edo State.
Rt. Hon. Marcus Onobun has a long history of dedicated public service, championing initiatives that promote education, skills acquisition, community development and non-violence peaceful coexistence. His commitment to the welfare of his constituents is evident in his tireless efforts to address their needs and concerns. It is therefore unsurprising that his constituents have reposed immense trust and confidence in him.
The allegations of cultism against Onobun are baseless, unfounded, and politically motivated. A closer examination of the circumstances surrounding these claims reveals a clear attempt to tarnish his reputation and distract from his legislative achievements. It is worth noting that the last time Onobun was in Edo State was April 22nd, 2025, which raises questions about the timing and credibility of these allegations.
Since the Court of Appeal’s ruling in favour of the APC, Governor Okpebholo has seemingly intensified efforts to suppress opposition voices in the state. The timing of these allegations against Onobun suggests a coordinated effort to undermine the PDP and its leaders in the state that is the APC’s larger agenda to coerce the nation into one party state. This trend is concerning and threatens the very fabric of democracy in Edo in State in particular and Nigeria at large.
From all indications, Edo people stand in solidarity with Rt. Hon. Marcus Onobun and reject the baseless allegations leveled against him. The general public is urged to exercise caution and discernment when consuming information, especially in the context of politically motivated attacks on trailblazers, such as Rt. Hon. Onobu. Onobun’s track record of service and commitment to his constituents is a testament to his character and dedication. Governor Okpebholo and the APC should focus on governance and addressing the needs of the people rather than engaging in petty politics and character assassination.
Governor Okpebholo should prioritize governance and addressing the needs of Edo State’s citizens. And the APC should refrain from engaging in politically motivated attacks on opposition leaders at a time Edo people are demanding for accountability and transparency from his chaotic administration.
In upholding the principles of democracy, fairness, and justice, the APC government in Edo State should exercise caution in its approach to social engagements and the business of collaborative governance to sterm the tide of violence. Protecting opposition voices in a democracy has been lesson the APC has refused to learn, and must learn.
