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Edo’s Political Heavyweights: Ize-Iyamu, Dennis Idahosa, Senator Okpebholo, Osunbor Locked In Intense Contest For APC Ticket

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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

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‘He Refused To Step Aside’ – Orji Kalu Recalls Obasanjo’s Alleged One-Term Promise.

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5 hours ago

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November 10, 2026

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Former Abia State Governor, Orji Uzor Kalu, has revealed the circumstances that led to the breakdown of his relationship with former President Olusegun Obasanjo.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Kalu said their disagreement stemmed from an alleged agreement that Obasanjo would serve only one term as president before handing over power to former military Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida.

He explained that the understanding was reached among himself, Babangida and Obasanjo before the latter was supported to become Nigeria’s president.

Kalu made the disclosure during an appearance on Arise Television, where he spoke about his political relationship with the former president.

According to him, the arrangement was for Obasanjo to serve a single four-year term from 1999 to 2003 before transferring power to Babangida.

He said, “I had a very good relationship with President Obasanjo, and it went sour. And it didn’t go sour because I wanted what I wanted to have as a person. It’s because I wanted something for all of us Nigerians.

“Because most of the things we discussed, he didn’t do. We discussed that he would be president for four years. We discussed that he would only do four years and leave, and another person would take over. We helped him a lot when he came out of prison. We maintained our support to make sure that he succeeded.”

The former governor further explained that Obasanjo was expected to hand over power to another political bloc after completing his first term.

He noted that Obasanjo’s emergence as president in 1999 was partly aimed at addressing the political grievances of the South-West following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election and the death of its presumed winner, Chief MKO Abiola.

Kalu added that the arrangement was also expected to sustain the rotation of power, with the presidency eventually returning to the North.

However, he said he could not confirm reports that Babangida had considered making him vice president under the proposed political arrangement.

“Whether he had given IBB to make me vice president, I don’t know. Man, I never thought about that. But the one you’re certain about is what I was certain about,” he added.

Reflecting on the disagreement, Kalu said he was much younger at the time but had since grown older and become more conscious of the importance of honouring political agreements.

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‘I Danced With Tinubu’ – APC Chairman Responds To Questions About President’s Health.

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6 hours ago

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November 10, 2026

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The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has urged Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid, insisting that the President is physically fit to continue leading the country.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Yilwatda made the appeal on Monday night while appearing on Channels Television’s Politics Today.

He argued that Tinubu’s recent visits to Akwa Ibom and Rivers States on Friday demonstrated his physical fitness and ability to handle the demands of the presidency.

Speaking during the programme, Yilwatda said he personally witnessed the President dancing during his visit to Akwa Ibom.

“Did you watch him (Tinubu) dance in Akwa Ibom? I was there live and I danced with him, he danced to the music of the people,” he said.

The APC chairman maintained that Tinubu’s schedule during the visit showed that he was capable of handling demanding engagements.

“Tinubu is fit to go. He was in Akwa Ibom, he had a dinner, town hall meeting with the people that same Friday, he engaged the people late in the night after the dinner and the next morning he was in Rivers.

“And if someone is not fit, he will do 48 hours of non-stop engagements and trips at the same time? Bring another complaint,” Yilwatda added.

He also explained that the APC had arranged Tinubu’s campaign schedule in a way that would prevent governance from suffering.

According to him, the President would spend two days campaigning and three days attending to official duties, with visits to Jigawa and Jos also scheduled.

Yilwatda further disclosed that the Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives had advised against participating in every campaign activity to ensure that the National Assembly continued its work.

He said the party had equally staggered the activities of members of its National Working Committee to prevent its operations from being disrupted by the campaign.

The APC chairman questioned whether governance, the National Assembly and the party should be shut down simply because of the election campaign, describing such a suggestion as unreasonable.

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‘How Did She Win?’ – OK Movement Questions Natasha’s Kogi Central Mandate.

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6 hours ago

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November 10, 2026

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The Obi-Kwankwaso Movement has responded to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, following her criticism of the group’s call for an investigation into her distribution of millions of naira to constituents.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

News reports that Akpoti-Uduaghan had criticised the Movement for urging the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate her cash empowerment programme, which she claimed was funded through a Federal Government budgetary allocation.

However, speaking in an interview with Punch, the Director-General of the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement, John Ughulu, said the senator’s response failed to address the concerns raised by the group.

Ughulu maintained that elected public officials needed continuous orientation on their constitutional duties, ethical responsibilities and accountability to the people.

He said the widely discussed cash distribution had raised concerns about the possible misuse of public office and the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process.

According to him, if investigations establish that the money was distributed to influence voters ahead of an election, the action could amount to advance vote buying and should be examined under relevant electoral laws.

Ughulu stated:

“What Nigerians witnessed in the widely discussed money distribution incident raises serious questions about the abuse of public office and the integrity of our electoral process.

“If the circumstances establish that the money was distributed to influence voters ahead of an election, the matter could amount to advance vote buying and should be investigated under the relevant provisions of Nigerian electoral law.”

The movement’s director-general also challenged Akpoti-Uduaghan to clarify whether similar cash distributions formed part of her election campaigns, arguing that the circumstances surrounding her emergence as a senator also warranted scrutiny.

He said:

“The election that brought Senator Natasha into the National Assembly was decided by the people. Therefore, an important question must be asked: Was the same practice of distributing money to influence voters involved in securing her electoral victory?

“That question deserves a factual answer, not an emotional reaction.”

The group further rejected suggestions that its criticism was politically motivated, insisting that its position on electoral accountability applied to politicians across party lines, including candidates of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

Ughulu stressed that the movement would not overlook alleged electoral misconduct involving individuals within its political camp while condemning similar actions by members of other parties.

He added:

“We cannot condemn alleged electoral malpractice under the present administration while appearing to tolerate similar conduct from individuals within our own political space. The same standards of integrity, transparency and accountability must apply to everyone.

“The OK Movement will not make exceptions for anyone. This applies equally to NDC candidates and candidates of every other political party. Anyone involved in electoral manipulation, vote buying, result falsification or any attempt to undermine the will of the electorate should expect lawful scrutiny and accountability.”

Ughulu also warned that the movement would explore legal options to demand accountability if the EFCC or other relevant agencies failed to investigate credible allegations.

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