Group Decries Imbalance In Edo South Representation

A group, the Fair Representation Initiative for Edo South (FRIES), has released its first assessment update on the 2027 Edo South Senatorial race, highlighting concerns over long-standing marginalisation of some local government areas while identifying key performance indicators shaping the contest.

In its report on Friday, the group drew attention to what it described as a 60-year imbalance in senatorial representation, noting that Orhionmwon, Egor and Ovia South West local government areas have never produced a senator since 1965, despite their political and economic contributions to the district.

The executive director of FRIES, Scot Oniawu, said the continued exclusion of Orhionmwon, in particular, raises concerns about equity, given its status as a major agricultural and oil-producing area with a politically active population.

Oniawu explained that the group’s assessment, which focuses on voter base, federal reach, ward-level structure and capacity to address marginalisation, shows that Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu currently ranks ahead of other aspirants.

“Orhionmwon has consistently played a significant role in Edo South’s electoral outcomes, yet it remains without representation at the Senate level. This reality underscores the need for deliberate efforts to address the imbalance,” he said.

“Across all measurable indicators, including grassroots structure and federal access, our data indicates that Ize-Iyamu leads the field,” he stated.

He added that Edo South’s development priorities such as road infrastructure, erosion control, power supply and job creation require strong federal linkages, noting that, “effective representation at the Senate level goes beyond popularity; it requires the ability to attract federal presence and resources to underserved areas.”

Speaking further on the issue of marginalisation, Oniawu noted that, “Our findings show that capacity to address LGA imbalance is a critical factor in this race, and candidates are being assessed on their ability to ensure inclusive representation across all seven LGAs, especially those historically excluded.”

The FRIES boss also dismissed recent rumours suggesting that Ize-Iyamu had withdrawn from the race, describing the claim as false.

“There is no evidence to support the withdrawal narrative. Our engagement and field tracking confirm that he remains an active contender in the race,” he said.

He urged stakeholders to focus on verifiable data and performance benchmarks as the political process unfolds, adding that the group would continue to provide periodic updates ahead of party primaries to guide informed decision-making.