Hon. Patrick Obahiagbon on Benin-Ore-Lagos Road

In 2009, Hon. Patrick Obahiagbon stood on the floor of the House of Representatives and gave this memorable speech on the state of Benin-Ore-Lagos road.  How many members of the House of Representatives in 2009 can you remember?

You will most certainly not forget Hon. Patrick Obahiagon, who often left the House and the Nigeria people mesmerised, hugging their dictionaries, some bewildered and others rolling on the floor in laughter.

This was the first speech I saw of our House of Representatives, and I was absolutely captivated by the the passion of Obahiagbon and indeed his choice of words.  Those of us who have used the road in question know that it has been a great problem for travellers, particularly during the rainy season, too many have lost their lives on this stretch of tar.  Governments have consistently failed, not just on this road, but across the nation, to put the safety of its people first.  It was right that this be pointed out, but not in the usual way where things are simply swept under the carpet.

The speech begins as follows:

It is not the drivers of lorries and tanks who have brought pains to Nigerian people, No.  Rather, it is because of the failure of government.

In a country where the political space is crowded and very noisy, Hon Obahiagbon forces you to pause, listen and use your brain. His speeches, though sometimes derided for over use of ‘heavy’ and ‘illusive’ grammar; are often apt and for of political wisdom in favour of the truth.

To my mind, Hon. Patrick has made a great contribution to political debate in our country and I look forward to more of his oratory.