By Engr. Erese
Silence is often mistaken for weakness, and diligence is often clouded by the "whispers of the uninformed." As a professional, I find it necessary to apply technical logic and moral clarity to the unfounded criticisms currently directed at the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Barr. Umar Musa Ikhilor.
As an engineer, my world is governed by data, not hearsay. The "negligence in handling files" alleged by detractors is mathematically disproven by the 24-hour turnaround policy maintained in the SSG’s office. In the machinery of governance, the SSG is the engine’s core; his constant presence alongside the Executive Governor is not "absence", it is strategic alignment.
To ensure the Governor’s vision is translated into immediate action, the "loyal lieutenant" must be where the decisions are made. Barr. Ikhilor’s proximity to leadership is the very reason the state's administrative gears are turning without friction.
We are cautioned by the Divine Testament that when an ignoramus brings news, we must investigate with care lest we harm the innocent. Investigation reveals a man who has successfully scrubbed his office of the stains of tribalism and religious sentiment.
The Humanitarian Metric is clearly exemplified by his actions. By opening his doors and resources to every Edo citizen, he defines the maxim that the best of people are those most useful to others.
The Noble Youth represents a new generation of leaders that value competence over connection and service over status.
To those who sit, dine, and smile in his presence while harboring ill-will in the shadows, your actions are the definition of administrative and moral hypocrisy. To disdain the truth and look down on the success of others is the height of arrogance.
True superiority is not found in a title or an assumed ego, but in God-consciousness and selfless service.
Your attempts to undermine him—whether conscious or subconscious—will serve only as the fire that refines the gold of his character.
I do not stand with Barr. Ikhilor out of mere sentiment. I stand with him because justice demands it. The wisest of men taught us that we help our brother by defending him when he is being oppressed by falsehood.
Today, I raise my voice to defend his honour against the "evil eye" of envy and the destructive tongues of detractors.
May God Almighty protect him from the schemes of the envious. May his strong loyalty to the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo and the people of Edo State serve as an impenetrable shield against those who pretend to care but seek only to destroy.
Integrity always outlasts the rumour.
