STEVEN LUKE FIRES BACK: STOP HIDING BEHIND PROPAGANDA AND ANSWER THE REAL QUESTIONS ABOUT IYEDE’S DEVELOPMENT
It is laughable that someone would write such a lengthy response attacking Steven Luke while avoiding the fundamental questions raised about Chief Okpobor’s political appeal to the people of Iyede. Instead of addressing the issues, the writer has chosen to turn the matter into a personal battle against Steven Luke. That is not an answer; it is an attempt to distract the public from the real issues.
Chief Okpobor is entitled to support the APC, but he must also be prepared to answer questions about his political choices and responsibilities. Holding a government position does not place anyone above public scrutiny, and no political appointment should become a shield against constructive criticism.
The question is simple: what concrete benefits have the people of Iyede received, and what measurable impact has Chief Okpobor’s position had on the community? If his achievements are as visible as his defenders claim, let them present specific projects, employment opportunities, empowerment programmes, and verifiable records. The public deserves evidence, not insults disguised as political analysis.
It is particularly amusing to hear that the people of Iyede are supposedly not complaining. Who appointed the writer as the official voice of every son and daughter of Iyede? Silence from some individuals does not mean universal satisfaction, and support for a political figure does not cancel the right of other citizens to ask difficult questions.
Steven Luke does not need anybody’s permission to express his political opinion. He does not need to belong to the APC, and he certainly does not need the approval of Chief Okpobor’s supporters before questioning the priorities of those in positions of authority.
The attempt to portray Steven Luke as someone who should first produce an alternative before criticising the APC is nothing but a weak political argument. Must a citizen become a governor, commissioner, or political officeholder before demanding accountability? Is it now a crime to question those enjoying the privileges of public office?
Let it be made clear: political loyalty is not a substitute for accountability, and being a son of Iyede does not automatically make anyone’s political decisions unquestionable.
The reference to Steven Luke speaking from behind a free Wi-Fi connection is an unnecessary attempt to ridicule him instead of confronting his arguments. Whether he speaks from Iyede, Warri, Abuja, or anywhere else, the validity of his questions depends on the facts—not his internet connection or physical location.
And to those claiming that the people of Iyede are queuing behind Chief Okpobor, nobody disputes their democratic right to support him. However, nobody should confuse a political gathering, a collection of photographs, or the loyalty of a group of supporters with the unanimous position of an entire community. Iyede belongs to its people, not to any politician or political camp.
If Chief Okpobor believes the APC deserves the support of Iyede, he should convince the people through tangible achievements, credible policies, and a clear commitment to their welfare. He should not expect everyone to abandon their political differences simply because he has made an appeal.
Our position remains clear: no individual owns Iyede, no political party owns the people's votes, and no government appointment grants anyone immunity from criticism.
Comrade Steven Luke will not be intimidated by political propaganda or personal attacks. He will continue to speak on issues affecting the people and demand accountability from those entrusted with public responsibilities.
If Chief Okpobor’s defenders have facts, let them present them. If they have projects, let them list them. If they have verifiable achievements, let the public examine them.
But if all they can offer is lengthy grammar, personal insults, and attempts to discredit Steven Luke, then they should stop pretending that they have answered the questions.
Iyede needs development, not political intimidation. The people need results, not propaganda. And accountability must never become a crime simply because it makes powerful political interests uncomfortable.
Signed:
Comrade Steven Luke
Convener, No Jobman for Governor 2023
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