Edo Education Commissioner Steps Down Joins Reps Race- Ekohotblog

Iyamu declares interest in Oredo House of Representatives seat
Former commissioner highlights loyalty, empowerment programmes and political experience
APC leaders urge unity as election activities begin in constituency

Few days after resigning as Commissioner for Education, Paddy Iyamu has formally declared his intention to contest for the Oredo Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives.

The declaration took place at the All Progressives Congress secretariat in Oredo Local Government Area, with key party figures in attendance, including the APC State Secretary, Engr. Lawrence Okah, former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Uyi Igbe, former member of the House of Representatives, Patrick Obahiagbon, and former State Youth Leader, Valentine Asue.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that speaking at the event, Iyamu dismissed claims questioning his loyalty to the party, insisting he has been a committed member since 2016.

“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.

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

Iyamu expressed confidence in his chances, citing his performance in office and contributions to development under the leadership of Monday Okpebholo.

“You can see the turnout of people here today. It means that they know I have done well as commissioner with all the developmental strides, with everything we did supporting my political leader and father, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to attract a lot of development to our people.

“So this goes to show you that they have so much confidence that if they entrust me with the seat of the House of Representatives, we will do more for them. So I am happy with my people and by the grace of God, victory is sure,” he added.

He also highlighted his grassroots empowerment programmes, particularly for women and youths, noting that initiatives launched since 2019 have delivered visible results across wards.

“From 2019, I started women’s 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.

Responding to criticisms, Iyamu described claims of rejection at the ward level as false and politically motivated, insisting his record reflects loyalty and service.

Earlier, the APC Chairman in Oredo, Osamudiamen Osarenkhoe, called for unity within the party and urged members to avoid internal disputes ahead of the elections.

Edo Education Commissioner Steps Down Joins Reps Race

“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,” he said.