APC Oredo Race Heats Up Over Claims Of Support For Iyamu

The contest for the Oredo Federal House of Representatives ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State is gathering momentum, following mounting claims that the aspiration of Dr. Paddy Iyamu is receiving backing from influential figures within the party’s national structure.

Party insiders told our correspondent that Iyamu’s rising profile is being driven by what they described as “tacit support” from Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and founder of the City Boy Movement.

Iyamu, who serves as Edo State coordinator of the City Boy Movement, a platform mobilising grassroots support ahead of the 2027 presidential election, has in recent months consolidated his standing within the party, with sources pointing to his growing access to key actors at the national level.

The development has unsettled some aspirants in the race, who argue that such perceived backing could tilt the contest. Concerns have also been raised over Iyamu’s expanding influence both within Edo State and across party structures linked to the movement.

Further fuelling the conversation are allegations that Edo State governor Monday Okpebholo is favourably disposed to Iyamu’s candidacy. Political observers note that Iyamu’s previous role as commissioner for education, during which he was credited with implementing key reforms, may have strengthened his standing with the state leadership.

A senior APC source said the governor views Iyamu as a loyal party figure with administrative experience. “There is a belief that he has the capacity to represent the party effectively, based on his record in office,” the source said.

Attention has also focused on a recent visit by Seyi Tinubu to Government House in Benin City. Sources familiar with the meeting alleged that the governor made a direct appeal for support for Iyamu.

According to one insider, “There was an open request for Seyi to help create political space for Iyamu at the national level.”

The unfolding dynamics have sharpened the contest, particularly between Iyamu and former Oredo Local Government Chairman, Osaro Obazee, widely seen as his main challenger.

Analysts say Iyamu’s decision to resign his position as commissioner to pursue the ticket underscores the high stakes of the race, describing it as a calculated move that signals confidence in his political structure.

In what supporters describe as a demonstration of strength, Iyamu recently hosted leaders of the City Boy Movement from across the South-South region in Benin City. The gathering drew prominent political stakeholders and has been interpreted as evidence of his growing reach within the APC.

A party chieftain, who requested anonymity, said the event underscored Iyamu’s ability to mobilise support across the region. “Bringing stakeholders from all six South-South states together reflects organisational capacity and influence. It shows he has built a formidable network,” the source said.

Among those in attendance were Minister for Youth Development Ayodele Olawande, NDDC Managing Director Samuel Ogbuku, SMEDAN Director-General Charles Odii, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, businessman Obi Cubana, and nightlife entrepreneur Pascal Okechukwu, among others.

As alignments continue to evolve, the Oredo APC ticket contest is shaping into a closely watched political battle, with influence, networks, and perceived endorsements emerging as defining factors.