Former Commissioner Paddy Iyamu Formally Declares For Oredo Federal Constituency; APC Leaders Rally Support For "Loyal Party Pillar" Amid Grassroots Backlash Denials

Paddy Iyamu, former Edo Education Commissioner, declares for Oredo Federal House of Representatives. See why APC leaders are calling for unity behind his bid.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 21, 2026, 12:14 PM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Independent

A Declaration of Loyalty and Continuity

The political atmosphere in Oredo Local Government Area shifted significantly on Saturday, March 21, 2026, as Paddy Iyamu formally entered the race for the Federal House of Representatives. Addressing a large gathering of party faithful, Iyamu positioned himself as a "loyal and committed" insider whose primary objective is to strengthen the APC’s structure from within. His declaration was met with a strong show of solidarity from the Oredo APC Chairman, Osamudiamen Osarenkhoe, who urged members to cease internal "backbiting" and unite behind a candidate who has consistently respected the party’s leadership hierarchy.

Countering the "Stranger" Narrative

Responding to critics who have characterized him as disconnected from the grassroots, Iyamu provided a detailed timeline of his political investments. He traced his active involvement back to 2016, highlighting his role as a key financier and mobilizer in successive electoral cycles. Specifically, Iyamu pointed to his tireless efforts in supporting Senator Monday Okpebholo and his financial backing of youth leaders to ensure APC victories in 2020 and 2024. "It is painful when people try to paint me as a stranger," Iyamu remarked, insisting that his only "crime" in the eyes of his detractors was his decision to finally seek elective office himself.

Tangible Grassroots Empowerment

To substantiate his connection with the electorate, Iyamu highlighted his long-running empowerment schemes, particularly in Ward 10. Since 2019, he has reportedly sustained monthly support programs for women-owned businesses and families. According to the former Commissioner, these visible results in the "nooks and crannies" of Oredo provide him with a formidable numerical advantage over his rivals. He dismissed reports of rejection at the ward level as politically motivated fabrications, asserting that his relationship with both the local and state leadership remains exceptionally cordial.