An Esan adage states that it is better to be barren than to give birth to a witch. Another saying warns that a foolish son brings heartache not only to his parents but to the entire community. The presence of such a person yields nothing but sorrow and despair.
The Bible, in Exodus 22:18, commands, “Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live.” This underscores the gravity of the damage such individuals can inflict upon their people if left unchecked. But who is a witch? A deeper understanding from religious texts, cultural wisdom, and historical observation reveals that a witch is not merely a supernatural entity but anyone who actively obstructs the progress of their own people—one who aligns with external forces to deprive their community of what rightfully belongs to them.
Without mincing words, the individual who was imposed on Esan West, Esan Central, and Igueben Federal Constituency through electoral manipulation and the brute force of the then autocratic governor, Godwin Obaseki, has repeatedly demonstrated that he is not only a betrayer but a destructive force within Esanland. Marcus Onobun has, time and again, positioned himself as an obstacle to the collective aspirations of his people.
In 2007, when Esan sons and daughters celebrated the election of Senator Oseremen Osunbor as Edo State Governor, Marcus Onobun played a pivotal role in truncating that victory. Appearing in court with his mother, he testified against Osunbor, effectively robbing Esanland of its rightful place in leadership. By choosing selfish ambition over the collective will of millions, Onobun set Esanland back by 17 years.
His treachery did not stop there. In his pursuit of power, he climbed the ranks to become the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly by betraying his people. Under his leadership, 14 lawfully elected lawmakers were disenfranchised for four years. This singular act denied 14 constituencies the benefits of representation, blocking their access to legislative dividends.
As Speaker, Onobun further aligned himself with Governor Obaseki to systematically undermine Ambrose Alli University, a historic institution and the pride of Esanland. Under his watch, State subvention to AAU was cut off, leading to the loss of accreditation for critical programs such as Medical School, Nursing, and Medical Laboratory Science. He also endorsed the relocation of the Faculty of Engineering from Ekpoma to Edo South, demonstrating his willingness to mortgage the future of his people for political favor.
Beyond politics, Onobun’s legacy of thuggery and cultism has contributed significantly to insecurity in Esanland. He is widely known for empowering violent groups with weapons, particularly during elections, further destabilizing the region. Even as the current administration works tirelessly to restore peace and order, remnants of his armed foot soldiers continue to pose a threat—one that is already being dismantled.
As the opening paragraph says, it is better to be barren than to give birth to a witch. Reason is that, witchcraft is a blood thing. A witch hardly changes or amend his ways. When left unchecked, he will strike again once an opportunity presents itself. His only pleasure is in seeing that no good comes to his people. Marcus Onobun is that unfortunate witch that has become a thing of sorrow to Esan land
It is no coincidence that, 17 years after betraying an Esan governor, Marcus Onobun is once again at the forefront of efforts to destabilize another Esan-led government. Why has he made it his life’s mission to ensure that no Esan man governs Edo State in peace? His actions reveal a pattern of deep-seated betrayal and a relentless quest to keep Esanland politically subjugated.
Yet, as the elders say, he who gathers firewood laden with curses must carry it on his head. Onobun has chosen a path of treachery, and the weight of his actions will ultimately consume him. The time has come for Esan people to unite and put an end to his political machinations. As the scriptures instruct, the era of this political witch must now come to an end.
It is time to retire that political infant, Marcus Onobun and reclaim our collective destiny.
*Oseghale Otaigbe is a public affairs analyst and hails from Iruekpen, Edo State.
