Edo Reps Race: Iyamu Declares, Points To Track Record

As political party activities heightens, Edo State former commissioner for education, Hon. Paddy Paddy Iyamu, on Friday formally declared his intention to contest for the Oredo Federal House of Representatives seat at the APC Secretariat in Oredo Local Government Area, amid jubilation from party leaders and supporters.

The declaration, which drew a large turnout of party faithful, was marked by a show of solidarity as key stakeholders within the party gathered to receive Iyamu, underscoring his longstanding role in strengthening the party structure in Oredo.

Speaking during the event, Iyamu dismissed claims that he is not a grassroots politician, insisting that his contributions to the growth of the party over the years speak for themselves.

He traced his involvement in party activities back to 2016, noting that he had consistently invested his time, resources and energy in ensuring electoral victories for the APC.

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

He further highlighted his role in successive elections, particularly his support for Senator Monday Okpebholo, stating that he worked tirelessly across Oredo to mobilise voters adding that his efforts, alongside other leaders, contributed significantly to the party’s success at the polls.

“In 2020 and 2024, I did the same thing. I went round the nook and crannies of Oredo campaigning. I supported youth leaders financially to galvanise support and ensure we secured victory for our candidates,” he added.

Iyamu also pointed to his grassroots empowerment initiatives, especially among women and youths, as evidence of his deep connection with the people. He noted that since 2019, he has sustained women empowerment programmes across wards, including monthly support schemes in Ward 10.

“From 2019, I started women empowerment in Oredo, supporting businesses and families. In Ward 10, we introduced monthly empowerment programmes, and today, the results are visible. I make bold to say that I have the numbers and I won overwhelmingly,” he stated.

Reacting to criticisms from some quarters, Iyamu described allegations of being rejected at the ward level as false and politically motivated, maintaining that his track record contradicts such claims emphasizing that his political journey has been driven by loyalty and service to the party.

“It is painful when people try to paint me as a stranger. The same people know the role I played. My only ‘crime’ is my decision to contest,” Iyamu said, adding that his relationship with the state leadership has remained cordial and productive.

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 due process. He urged members to avoid internal conflicts as the electioneering season begins.

“Paddy is a man who respects the party and its leaders. Power belongs to God. If it is his turn, no one can stop it. We must stop backbiting and work together to build a stronger party,” Osarenkhoe said.

Dignitaries at the event included former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Ambassador Uyi Igbe; former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Patrick Obahiagbon; Hon. Valentine Asuen; APC State Secretary, Lawrence Okah; and members of the City Boy Movement, among others.