Edo APC Leaders Endorse Iyamu, Osawaru In Fresh Consensus Deal

According to Ireporter Online, leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oredo Federal Constituency have reached a consensus to support the ambition of former Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, as the party’s preferred candidate for the Oredo House of Representatives seat.

In a parallel development, APC stakeholders in the Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency also endorsed Billy Osawaru as their consensus choice ahead of the forthcoming primaries.

A party chieftain disclosed that the endorsements were aimed at dispelling rumours alleging that Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, had imposed his preferred aspirants on the party structure. He added that the move was part of wider consultations designed to prevent internal divisions ahead of the primaries.

While supporters of Osaro Obazee, a contender for the APC ticket in Oredo, maintained that the contest should remain open and competitive, allies of Dr. Iyamu argued that Obazee’s previous electoral performance in the 2023 House of Representatives election did not justify his candidacy.

Another party leader explained that Iyamu was chosen based on his longstanding contributions to the growth of the APC in Oredo and Edo South Senatorial District, as well as his political influence and connections at the national level.

He further stated that Iyamu enjoys strong grassroots support across Oredo, noting that his public engagements consistently attract large crowds. The source also highlighted Iyamu’s role in securing his ward for Governor Okpebholo during the 2024 governorship election, alongside his financial and strategic contributions to the party’s success.

Meanwhile, Billy Osawaru’s endorsement was confirmed during an expanded meeting of APC leaders in the Uhunmwode/Orhionmwon Federal Constituency, where stakeholders aligned in support of his candidacy ahead of the primaries.