A heated political debate has erupted in Edo State following comments attributed to Hon. Ogbeide Ifaluyi-Isibor, in which he reportedly referenced Hon. Sylvester Aigboboh in a manner that many community stakeholders describe as demeaning, unfounded, and dangerously divisive.
The remarks linking Aigboboh to discussions about so-called “fake investors” and attempting to label him as a “renowned native doctor” have drawn widespread condemnation from political observers and grassroots leaders, who argue that such characterizations cross the line from political critique into religious profiling and personal attack.
Leading the defence is Prince G. Sadoh, who issued a strongly worded response rejecting what he considers an unjust attempt to tarnish Aigboboh’s longstanding reputation.
Sadoh insists that Edo people must decisively reject any political rhetoric that weaponizes religion, culture, or traditional identity.
According to him, injecting religious stereotypes into political disagreements is “reckless, unnecessary, and completely out of touch with the values of Edo State.”
Hon. Sylvester Aigboboh, widely regarded as a stabilizing presence within his constituency, is known for his deep grassroots influence, community-centered leadership, and unwavering loyalty to the current administration.
For years, he has played significant roles in peace-building, youth engagement, security coordination, and community mobilization, often operating quietly behind the scenes to support government programmes and ensure their success.
Supporters argue that nothing in his track record suggests he has ever exploited personal beliefs or cultural background to divide communities.
On the contrary, they say his leadership reflects the inclusive spirit that Edo prides itself on where Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers coexist with mutual respect.
To reduce his identity to a stereotype, they argue, is not only an attack on his person but an insult to all Edo people who value religious harmony.
Community leaders believe that such rhetoric risks steering the state backward into sectarian tensions. “Edo has always been a land where we respect all faiths,” Sadoh emphasized.
“We do not tear one another down using religion. Anyone attempting to introduce such divisions is acting against our collective progress.”
Sadoh challenged Ifaluyi-Isibor’s focus, arguing that if his concerns revolve around investor credibility, he should provide facts specifically by naming the individuals backing Senator Monday Okpebholo rather than resorting to what he describes as “cheap blackmail” and personal insinuations.
Critics of the controversial commentary say it distracts from substantive governance issues, undermines political maturity, and ignores the contributions of those who have worked tirelessly to support the administration.
For them, Hon. Aigboboh’s integrity, loyalty, and consistent service stand in stark contrast to what they view as the escalating desperation in the political arena.
As Edo progresses toward a crucial political season, community voices are calling for discourse rooted in truth, respect, and development.
“We must not allow smear campaigns to rewrite the contributions of those who stood with the government when others plotted behind closed doors,” Sadoh warned.
The consensus among supporters is clear: Edo must move forward—not backward into religious battles, stereotypes, and character smearing. The defence of Hon. Aigboboh, they insist, is a defence of the principles that safeguard the unity and dignity of Edo State.
