Politics
Edo’s Political Heavyweights: Ize-Iyamu, Dennis Idahosa, Senator Okpebholo, Osunbor Locked In Intense Contest For APC Ticket
Edo’s Political Heavyweights: Ize-Iyamu, Dennis Idahosa, Senator Okpebholo, Osunbor Locked In Intense Contest For APC Ticket....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Written By Oshiobugie John Omo-Ikirodah
In what is shaping up to be a political spectacle, Edo State finds itself on the cusp of a high-stakes clash as formidable contenders vie for the coveted APC ticket ahead of the 2024 elections.
The forthcoming electoral showdown has captured the attention of Edo’s populace, marking a significant moment in the state’s political history.
This electoral battleground features political heavyweights, each with a distinct track record and a reservoir of support.
Among the contenders are Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, known for his previous gubernatorial bid and grassroots appeal, Dennis Idahosa, a House of Representatives member with a philanthropic streak, Senator Okpebholo, a seasoned political figure, and Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor, a former governor.
The intensity of the race is already palpable, with these political titans engaging in a no-holds-barred contest to secure the APC ticket.
The drama unfolding ten months before the election is unprecedented, capturing the imagination of Edo’s residents amidst recent political turbulence, including the discord between Governor Obaseki and his Deputy Shaibu and the ongoing controversy surrounding zoning.
One prominent theme in the political discourse is the call for power rotation to Edo Central, emphasizing the need for a fair distribution of leadership opportunities.
Advocates argue that the Esan community, situated in Edo Central, has yet to showcase its leadership capabilities since the advent of the Fourth Republic.
However, as is often the case in politics, the dynamics of numbers and influence may shape the trajectory of sentiment.
Let’s delve into the leading candidates for the forthcoming Edo election:
Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu;
Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu is a multifaceted figure, embodying roles as a Nigerian clergyman, politician, lawyer, and farmer, hailing from the Southern part of Edo State.
Renowned for his active engagement in Edo State’s political sphere, he has traversed various political affiliations, showcasing a dedicated commitment to public service and governance.
His dual role as a pastor and a political figure underscores his unwavering dedication to both spiritual and civic leadership.
Ize-Iyamu’s journey into the spotlight commenced with notable appointments, first as the Chief of Staff to former Governor Lucky Igbiniedion and subsequently as the Secretary to the State Government (SSG).
His prominence further burgeoned during gubernatorial elections, drawing attention to his aspirations and the causes he ardently championed.
Over the years, he has navigated the intricate landscape of Nigerian politics, aligning himself with major political parties such as the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Notably, this marks Pastor Ize-Iyamu’s third foray into the electoral arena, as he officially declared his candidacy in Edo State. A prominent feature in the political discourse, he enjoys significant political connections, counting Senator Adams Oshiomhole and President Bola Tinubu among his close associates.
Additionally, Ize-Iyamu boasts a formidable financial war chest. Yet, the pivotal question arises: Will these political connections and financial resources be sufficient for him to secure victory in the election and potentially ascend to Osadebe Avenue? The answer remains an intriguing facet of Edo State’s unfolding political narrative.
Dennis Idahosa;
Dennis a seasoned and strategic politician at the age of forty-three, proudly represents the vibrant people of Ovia Federal Constituency in the Green Chamber of the National Assembly. Hailing from Edo State, his political journey has been marked by significant contributions and impactful engagements.
Having previously served as a commissioner to the former Governor of Edo State, Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole, Dennis Idahosa earned recognition for his philanthropic endeavors, including the commendable act of donating his salaries to widows and engaging in various charitable works. At the age of thirty-eight, he contested and clinched victory in his first election, triumphing over Omosede Igbinedion.
Currently serving as the Chairman of the House Committee on Health Care, Dennis Idahosa secured this position after a hard-fought battle that included victories at the polls and in the judiciary against Omosede and the LP candidate.
Dennis Idahosa’s political prowess is further emphasized by his recent declaration of interest in the gubernatorial race scheduled for the following year. Actively engaging with APC stakeholders, he navigates the intricate landscape with a blend of brilliance, youthful energy, and a notable financial standing. The question looming in the political arena is whether these attributes will be sufficient for him to secure the coveted party ticket and emerge victorious in the main election. The answer, shrouded in the dynamics of political processes and public opinion, remains a narrative that only time will unveil.
Senator Monday Okpebholo;
Senator Monday Okpebholo fondly known as Akpakomiza, holds the distinguished position of representing Edo Central in the Senate. His emergence onto the political scene marked a significant moment, as he transitioned from a successful entrepreneur to a silent billionaire, capturing the attention of many during his successful bid for the senatorial election in Edo Central.
Popularly recognized for his financial acumen and political prowess, our reporters, while traversing different parts of Edo State, found a prevailing sentiment among the people. A significant majority anticipate Okpebholo securing the APC ticket for the gubernatorial race, citing factors such as his substantial financial resources, influential position as a member of the red chamber, and the potential favorability of a zoning formula, particularly for the Esan community.
Revered for his generosity, Senator Okpebholo has commenced a series of impactful reforms and projects in his senatorial district, earning him the trust and support of the people. Despite the silent anticipation, the senator has yet to formally declare his interest in the gubernatorial race for Edo State.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Senator Monday Okpebholo remains a formidable contender, and his decision to contest the governorship, if declared, will undoubtedly add an intriguing dimension to the unfolding narrative of Edo State politics.
Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor;
Osunbor, a seasoned Nigerian politician, held the esteemed position of Governor of Edo State. His tenure, though brief, spanned from May 29, 2007, to November 2008. Despite its brevity, his term faced legal challenges, ultimately leading to his removal from office following a verdict by the Election Petitions Tribunal.
Notably, Osunbor is often acknowledged as the “Governor with the most road projects in the 4th republic after Adams Oshiomhole,” highlighting his commitment to infrastructural development during his short-lived administration.
As a legal practitioner, former governor, and with a notable financial standing, Osunbor remains a prominent figure in Edo State politics. The question now emerges: will his wealth of experience, political connections, and financial status, coupled with a potential alignment with a zoning formula, be sufficient for him to clinch victory in the APC primaries and subsequently secure success in the general election? The answer lies in the dynamic interplay of political strategies, public sentiment, and the unfolding narrative of Edo State politics.
As the clock ticks down to the APC primaries, the question lingers: Who among these political heavyweights will emerge victorious, securing the coveted ticket and subsequently navigating the path to Osadebe Avenue? The answer rests in the hands of the electorate, who hold the power to shape the destiny of Edo State’s political landscape in the upcoming elections. The Clash of Titans promises a riveting spectacle, and only time will unveil the next chapter in this gripping political saga.
Source: Bushradiogist
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State has described moves to prosecute former Senate President Bukola Saraki and former Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed over alleged culpable homicide as an attempt to reopen the 2018 Offa robbery tragedy for political purposes.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State have restated their support for Senator Sunday Steve Karimi, who represents Kogi West in the Senate, while also calling for unity within the party ahead of future elections.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
A heated political exchange has erupted within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential race, as camps backing former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s rivals push back against his claims of superior popularity, especially in the North.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Supporters of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso rejected Atiku’s assertion that he remains the dominant northern vote-getter, insisting that such claims do not reflect today’s political realities.
The Kwankwasiyya Movement, aligned with a potential Obi-Kwankwaso ticket, dismissed Atiku’s influence in the North as largely elite-driven, arguing that Kwankwaso enjoys more genuine grassroots support.
Former Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi also reacted, faulting Atiku’s position and questioning the logic of relying solely on regional identity as a basis for presidential ambition.
Atiku, in a recent interview, had maintained that none of his northern rivals, including Kwankwaso, can match his electoral strength, while downplaying Kwankwaso’s influence beyond Kano State.
His remarks sparked criticism across political circles, with some opposition figures describing them as arrogant and dismissive of other contenders.
Kwankwaso’s camp, however, maintained that both Kwankwaso and Obi have more “organic” support bases compared to politically induced followership, warning that such comments could deepen divisions within the ADC coalition.
Amaechi also argued that the ADC presidential ticket should be determined through a competitive primary rather than consensus, insisting that all aspirants should be tested at the ballot.
The growing disagreement highlights rising tension within the opposition alliance ahead of the 2027 general elections, as key figures intensify positioning for the party’s presidential ticket.
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