It is not surprising to see yet another display of bitterness and deliberate misrepresentation from Izor Fidelis of the Echuji Community in Alifokpa Yache. What he has written is not only malicious but a deliberate attempt to smear the name of a man whose record of service, commitment to peace, and outstanding developmental impact has redefined Yache beyond imagination – Distinguished Senator Associate Prof. Stephen Odey.
Let it be made categorically clear that Dr. Stephen Odey did not convene the recent interactive meeting to insult, attack, or suppress anyone, least of all the so-called APA Elites. Rather, the meeting was a genuine effort to foster unity and chart a common course for the continued progress of Yache Nation. However, as always, those whose hearts are clouded by envy, like Fidelis, chose to interpret progress through the lens of personal grudge and ego bruising.
Let it sink to the minds of naysayers like Izor Fidelis that APA is a Microscopic Entity in the Larger Yache Nation, while being a community-based association, must recognize that it operates within the broader umbrella of Yache Nation which comprises Six major autonomous communities. The notion that APA is indispensable or immune to oversight is laughable. Senator Odey, being a leader committed to order and unity, has only advocated for synergy and harmony in operations, not the destruction of any group. The idea that he “proscribed” APA is a wild fabrication from a man battling his own shadows.
In the aspect of Hospital Development: Let the Truth Be Told
Izor Fidelis shamelessly claims that Senator Odey tried to sabotage the development of ALGON Hospital in Alifokpa. This is not only false but wicked. In truth, Senator Odey stood firmly and was instrumental in pressing for the delivery of hospital equipment worth millions of Naira, facilitated by Hon. Barr. Fabian O Ogbeche, the immediate past Chairman of Yala LGA. His focus has always been to ensure healthcare reaches every corner of Yache – not just Alifokpa.
If APA truly cared for the people, it should have welcomed such efforts with gratitude, not bitterness. Instead, Izor Fidelis sees healthcare progress elsewhere as a threat. How shallow and divisive can one be?
Comparing Yache Before and After Senator Odey – A Study in Transformation
Let the bittered Izor Fidelis present any comparative data or project showing that Yache had ever experienced half of the growth it has seen under Senator Odey’s influence.
Before Senator Odey emergence:
Yache was grossly marginalized.
Infrastructure was a dream.
Youths were abandoned with no support.
Political presence was near zero.
Since the rise of Senator Stephen Odey:
Yache sons and daughters have been employed across sectors.
Hospital upgrades, school rehabilitations, and roads are becoming a norm, not a miracle.
Representation at state and national level has given Yache a respected voice.
What exactly has this unrepentant and envious Fidelis achieved in comparison? Or is his outcry born out of the pain of being irrelevant in the era of progress?
APA’s Political Desperation and Community Disregard
Mr. Fidelis boasts of APA’s lobbying and road grading. But where was APA when other communities in Yache including Alifokpa were suffering from total government neglect? Senator Odey came and extended interventions to all clans, took major roads awarded by the Cross River State government to Alifokpa without discrimination. That is leadership. In what is APA feeling side-lined or marginalized ?
Come to think of it, aside from the other Associations of Yache, why is APA antagonizing the progress of Yache Nation, why haven’t we heard Association Of Maa Clan, nor Wonye Development Association neither Uchu Community Development Association, Aji Youths Association, Echuji Community Development Association or Okani Development Association complained, why must it be only APA if that’s not bitterness.
Let it be known that no community association is greater than the unity of Yache Nation. APA must humble itself and work with others, not seek to dominate through noise and propaganda.
KARMA and the Politics of Acrimony
Izor Fidelis should take heed – bitterness never births growth. Karma will surely catch up with those who choose to fight selfless leaders rather than support the tide of development. No amount of blackmail or incitement will stop the good work Senator Odey is doing.
He should put his energy to better use – perhaps by championing meaningful initiatives rather than sitting behind a pen to concoct divisive tales.
Senator Associate Prof. Stephen Odey remains the pride of Yache. His works speak for themselves. His love for unity is unquestionable. And his legacy cannot be erased by the tantrums of one bitter man.
Letb Izor Fidelis returns to the path of reason. Let him understand that Yache has moved on – and bitterness is no longer welcome in a land destined for greatness.
Make hay while the sun shines.
A word is enough for the wise except otherwise.
Iduku Benjamin