Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, yesterday, declared that the Midwest Region which was carved out of the then Western Region in 1963, three years after Nigeria’s Independence and colonial rule, was a product of the bold character and love for freedom by the forefathers of the region.

He spoke on the occasion of the 60^thyear of the Midwest Referendum at the Sir. Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub, in Benin City, where he saluted Oba Eweka II, Oba Akenzua II, Chief Dennis Osadebey, and Chief Anthony Enahoro, among others who secured the creation of the then Midwestern Region.

He said these heroes had braved the odds and battled to create a distinctive political identity for a people who have always loved and cherished their freedom, culture and creative energies, adding the region, which later came to be known as Bendel State in 1976, was the first State in Nigeria to be created by a referendum, signalling our staunch belief in democratic ideals.

Obaseki however lamented that 60 years after the referendum, the people are still bedevilled with numerous socio-economic challenges, which require a reset of the institutions and structures that propped the region up in the past.

He, therefore, advocated the need for the leaders continue to work together to build a state that stands as a beacon of progress, a model of good governance, which had been a testament to the indomitable spirit of the people.

“It is with great delight that I welcome distinguished guests and dignitaries to this auspicious occasion as we celebrate 60 years of the Midwest Referendum and the 32^ndanniversary of the creation of Edo State.

“Today marks a significant milestone in our history as we reflect on our journey as a people, celebrating our achievements, acknowledging our challenges, and renewing our commitment to the ideals that shape our present and future.

“Six decades ago, the people of Edo and Delta States united in agreement for their self-determination, to chart their own course to political and economic freedom and break free from the chains of regional dominance.

“The Midwest Region in 1963, which was carved out of the then Western Region, three years after Independence and colonial rule, was a product of the bold character and love for freedom of our forebears.

“The region, later came to be known as Bendel State in 1976, was the first State in Nigeria to be created by a referendum, signalling our staunch belief in democratic ideals.

“It was the foresight, sacrifice, and struggle of courageous and notable leaders such as Oba Eweka II, Oba Akenzua, Chief Dennis Osadebe and Chief Athony Enahoro, among others that secured the creation of the then Midwestern Region. They had braved the odds and battled to create a distinctive political identity for a people who have always loved and cherished their freedom, culture and creative energies.

“In 1991, Bendel State was divided into Edo and Delta States and we are today carrying on with the vision of those who went before us. They set the course for our developmental trajectory and illuminated the pathway for our shared prosperity.

“The story of the Midwest Referendum is one of unity, resilience, and the power of collective action. It is a story that continues to inspire us to this day, reminding us of our capacity to overcome challenges, transform adversity into opportunities, and forge a better path for ourselves.

“The creation of the Midwest Region marked the beginning of a new era in which we took control of our destinies and embarked on a journey of growth, development, and progress. This was a journey characterized by resilience, innovation, and a commitment to excellence.

“From those early days to the present, we have strived to uphold the values that were at the core of the Midwest Referendum – values of progress, equity, and freedom. We have made significant strides in education, healthcare, infrastructure, technology, and many other areas. Our commitment to sustainable development, social justice, and the empowerment of our people remains unwavering.

“Today, as we look back on our history and celebrate the progress we have made, we also recognize the challenges that lie ahead. Our journey is far from over.

“We must continue to work together to overcome challenges, build on our successes, and sustain collaborations toward building a strong and virile region.

“Sixty years after the referendum, we are still bedevilled with numerous socio-economic challenges, which require a reset of the institutions and structures that propped the region up in the past.

“This is why we have undertaken holistic reforms of our institutions in Edo State in the last seven years. We have advanced reforms and innovations in various spheres of the economy that have opened Edo up for investment”, the governor said.

He pointed out that Edo State is presented with new opportunities, adding that task of his administration and the people of the state is to harness the potentials of the state resources, leverage the talents of its people, and create an environment that fosters innovation and creativity.

“An important question to ask is: are the conditions that led to the Midwest Referendum in 1963 not starring us in the face in Nigeria today? Would we not be able to plan better for the future of our people and attain accelerated development with a less cumbersome system of government that promotes competition among sub-nationals and discourages the constant resort to Abuja for direction and resources?

“Nigeria is in dire straits today as a result of the poor handling of our economic fortunes. And with the removal of the fuel subsidies among other political and economic challenges, perhaps the MidWest option may just be what we need to fall back to in order to stand a chance at survival and set a new course for economic rejuvenation.

“I extend my deepest appreciation to all those who have contributed to the growth and development of our dear Midwest region, now Edo and Delta States.

“We must continue to work together to build a state that stands as a beacon of progress, a model of good governance, and a testament to the indomitable spirit of our people”, Obaseki solicited.

In a goodwill message, immediate past governor of Edo State, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, commended the great initiative for organising a colloquium to mark the 60^thanniversary of Midwest referendum and 32 years of the creation of Edo State which has brought people of Delta and Edo States and part of Bayelsa State.

He noted that a lot has been achieved since the 1963 referendum, pointing out that if the people of Edo and Delta had remained part of the Western region, persons like himself, Prof. Oserhiemen Osunbor and the present governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki would not have had the opportunity to become governors.

He said a forum of this nature was apt as it will help the youth to know where that are coming from and therefore, requested Obaseki as the most senior governor of the South-south, to reactivate the Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa-Ibom, Cross River, Edo and Delta (BRACED) Commission, a regional body aimed at championing the welfare of people of the core Niger Delta.

He assured the Edo governor that working together with other senators of the South-South irrespective of party differences, they will continue to voice out the plight of the people until government at the centre begin to see the reason why it should listen and take positive actions. (Daily Sun)