Edo ex-education commissioner Iyamu declares for Reps seat

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By Ozioruva Aliu

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BENIN CITY — Days after resigning as Commissioner for Education in Edo State, Paddy Iyamu has formally declared his intention to contest for the Oredo Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

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Iyamu made the declaration at the APC Secretariat in Oredo Local Government Area, in the presence of party leaders and supporters, including former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Uyi Igbe, former lawmaker Patrick Obahiagbon, and ex-State Youth Leader, Valentine Asue.

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Speaking at the event, Iyamu dismissed rumours questioning his loyalty to the APC, stating that he has been an active member of the party since 2016.

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“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.

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He added that he played key roles in mobilising support for the party during the 2020 and 2024 elections, including grassroots campaigns and financial backing for youth leaders across Oredo.

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Iyamu expressed confidence in his chances, citing what he described as his achievements while in office and his contributions to the development of the constituency in collaboration with political leaders such as Monday Okpebholo.

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“You can see the turnout of people here today. It shows they have confidence in me. If entrusted with the seat, we will do more for our people,” he said.

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Highlighting his grassroots connection, Iyamu pointed to his empowerment programmes for women and youths, noting that since 2019, he has sustained initiatives aimed at supporting small businesses and families, including monthly schemes in Ward 10.

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He also dismissed claims that he had been rejected at the ward level, describing such allegations as false and politically motivated.

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

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“Power belongs to God. If it is his turn, no one can stop it. We must avoid internal conflicts and work together to strengthen the party,” Osarenkhoe said.

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