The contest for the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket to represent Oredo Federal Constituency in Edo State is heating up, fueled by growing assertions that Dr. Paddy Iyamu’s candidacy enjoys backing from influential figures within the party’s national leadership. This development has reshaped the political landscape, turning what was once a routine primary into a closely watched battle of influence and strategy.
Party insiders have revealed to our correspondent that Iyamu’s rising profile is largely attributed to what they describe as “tacit support” from Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and founder of the City Boy Movement. The City Boy Movement, a grassroots mobilization platform aimed at rallying support ahead of the 2027 presidential election, has become a key vehicle for Iyamu’s political ambitions. As the Edo State coordinator of this movement, Iyamu has leveraged his role to build a robust network, gaining access to top-tier party figures at the national level.
This perceived backing has unsettled other aspirants in the race, who argue that such high-level endorsements could unfairly tilt the contest. Concerns have also been raised about Iyamu’s expanding influence within Edo State and across party structures linked to the movement. For example, his ability to convene stakeholders from all six South-South states in a recent gathering in Benin City demonstrates organizational capacity that rivals even seasoned politicians.
Further fueling the conversation are allegations that Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo is favorably disposed to Iyamu’s candidacy. Political observers note that Iyamu’s previous role as commissioner for education, during which he was credited with implementing key reforms such as improving school infrastructure and teacher training programs, may have strengthened his standing with the state leadership. A senior APC source explained, “The governor views Iyamu as a loyal party figure with administrative experience. There is a belief that he has the capacity to represent the party effectively, based on his record in office.”
Attention has also focused on a recent visit by Seyi Tinubu to Government House in Benin City. Sources familiar with the meeting alleged that Governor Okpebholo made a direct appeal for support for Iyamu. According to one insider, “There was an open request for Seyi to help create political space for Iyamu at the national level.” This meeting underscores the strategic alliances forming behind the scenes, where personal connections and party loyalty are being leveraged to secure the ticket.
The unfolding dynamics have sharpened the contest, particularly between Iyamu and former Oredo Local Government Chairman Osaro Obazee, widely seen as his main challenger. Obazee, known for his grassroots support and experience in local governance, has not publicly commented on the claims but is expected to mount a strong campaign. Analysts say Iyamu’s decision to resign his position as commissioner to pursue the ticket underscores the high stakes of the race, describing it as a calculated move that signals confidence in his political structure. Resigning from a government post to run for office is a bold step that often indicates a candidate’s belief in their chances and their willingness to risk a secure position for a higher goal.
In what supporters describe as a demonstration of strength, Iyamu recently hosted leaders of the City Boy Movement from across the South-South region in Benin City. The gathering drew prominent political stakeholders, including Minister for Youth Development Ayodele Olawande, NDDC Managing Director Samuel Ogbuku, SMEDAN Director-General Charles Odii, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, businessman Obi Cubana, and nightlife entrepreneur Pascal Okechukwu, among others. This event has been interpreted as evidence of Iyamu’s growing reach within the APC and his ability to mobilize support across the region. A party chieftain, who requested anonymity, said, “Bringing stakeholders from all six South-South states together reflects organizational capacity and influence. It shows he has built a formidable network.”
As alignments continue to evolve, the Oredo APC ticket contest is shaping into a closely watched political battle, with influence, networks, and perceived endorsements emerging as defining factors. For voters and party members, the outcome will not only determine who represents Oredo in the House of Representatives but also signal the shifting power dynamics within the APC in Edo State. [[PEAI_MEDIA_X]] The race remains fluid, with both Iyamu and Obazee expected to intensify their campaigns in the coming weeks, each seeking to convert claims of support into tangible votes at the primary.