Rep Seats: Edo APC Leaders Move To Back Iyamu, Osawaru For Reps Tickets

Ahead of commencement for political parties primaries, indication emerged that Edo All Progressive Congress (APC), Stakeholders in Oredo Federal Constituency have reportedly endorsed former Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, as the preferred candidate to fly party’s House of Representatives seat.

Party sources familiar with ongoing consultations on Sunday confirmed that the development, believed to enjoy the backing of critical stakeholders within the constituency, has generated tension among supporters of another aspirant, Hon. Osaro Obazee, who is also seeking the APC ticket.

It was gathered that disagreements reportedly surfaced during a series of closed-door meetings convened by party leaders to strategise ahead of the elections, as loyalists of Obazee insisted that the contest should remain open and competitive.

However, some party leaders were said to have argued against Obazee’s candidacy, citing his inability to secure victory in the constituency during the 2023 House of Representatives election in which he flew the APC flag.

Majority of the leaders, however, were said to have rallied behind Iyamu, pointing to what they described as his longstanding commitment to the growth of the APC in Oredo Federal Constituency and Edo South Senatorial District, as well as his political reach and relationship with influential figures at the national level.

A senior APC chieftain in the constituency, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said Iyamu’s growing popularity among party faithful and residents influenced the decision of the leaders.

According to the source, “Paddy Iyamu presently enjoys widespread grassroots support across Oredo. Everywhere he goes, people identify with him in large numbers, which many party leaders consider a reflection of his acceptance among the people.

“He also played a significant role during the 2024 governorship election by delivering his ward for Governor Monday Okpebholo at a time several leaders struggled in their respective areas. Beyond that, he committed substantial personal resources towards the success of the party.

“We believe that with his political network, experience and connection to the power structure at the centre, Oredo Federal Constituency stands to attract more benefits if he eventually emerges as the party’s candidate.”

Meanwhile, indications have also emerged that the chances of the incumbent member representing Uhunmwode/Orhionmwon Federal Constituency, Hon. Billy Osawaru, securing the APC ticket for a second term may have received a major boost following alleged intervention by top party leaders in the state.

Osawaru is reportedly facing opposition from a former Edo State commissioner, Hon. Washington Osifo, who is also said to be interested in contesting for the seat on the platform of the APC.

However, party insiders disclosed that Governor Monday Okpebholo, recently convened a strategic reconciliation meeting involving leaders and stakeholders from the constituency, with both aspirants and other influential party figures in attendance.

Sources at the meeting disclosed that after extensive deliberations, party leaders resolved to back Osawaru’s re-election bid in what observers described as efforts to avoid a divisive primary contest ahead of the general election.

A source privy to the meeting said the governor and other stakeholders were of the view that retaining Osawaru would help preserve party cohesion and strengthen existing political structures within the constituency.