Edo reps race heats up as Paddy Iyamu declares for Oredo seat

Political activities in Edo State intensified at the weekend as former Commissioner for Education, Paddy Iyamu, formally declared his intention to contest for the Oredo Federal House of Representatives seat under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Iyamu made his declaration at the APC Secretariat in Oredo Local Government Area, drawing a large crowd of party leaders, stakeholders and supporters in what turned into a show of strength ahead of the election season.

The event witnessed the presence of key figures within the party, highlighting Iyamu’s longstanding involvement in party affairs and his influence within Oredo’s political structure.

Speaking during the declaration, Iyamu dismissed claims questioning his grassroots relevance, insisting that his political track record and contributions to the party since 2016 speak for themselves.

“I have been in this party since 2016, supporting it with all I have. Those who know Osagie Ize-Iyamu can attest to my commitment in building the party and supporting our candidates,” he said.

He recalled his active participation in past elections, particularly his support for Governor Monday Okpebholo, noting that he mobilised voters across Oredo and provided financial backing to youth leaders to secure victories for APC candidates.

Iyamu also highlighted his grassroots empowerment initiatives, especially among women and youths, stating that since 2019 he has sustained empowerment programmes across wards, including a monthly support scheme in Ward 10.

He described allegations that he lacks ward-level acceptance as false and politically motivated, adding that his decision to contest should not be misconstrued as disloyalty but as a continuation of his service to the party.

Earlier, the Oredo APC Chairman, Dr. Osamudiamen Osarenkhoe, called for unity among party members, describing Iyamu as a loyal and disciplined party man who respects leadership and due process.