CONSULTATION, CONSOLIDATION AND COMMITMENT: MY ENGAGEMENT WITH EDO SOUTH LEADERS
In the spirit of consultation, unity, and responsible leadership, I have continued my engagements with critical stakeholders across Edo South Senatorial District as we approach the 2027 electoral season.
As part of this process, I met with the seven Local Government Chairmen of Edo South under the platform of the All Progressives Congress to formally intimate them of my intention to contest the Edo South Senate seat in 2027.
Present at that strategic meeting were Hon. Julius Agbonze, Orhionmwon; Mr. Osamudiamen Osarenkhoe, Oredo; Chief Solomon Odemwingie, Ovia North East; Hon. Sunny Ogbewe, Ikpoba Okha; Hon. Osayemwenre Osawe, Uhunmwode and Mr. Emmanuel Ogbomo, Ovia South West. Chief Emmanuel Iyase of Egor was unavoidably absent.
Our discussions were frank, constructive, and forward-looking. We examined the political climate within the district, the expectations of our people, and the urgent need for effective and strategic representation at the National Assembly. I made it clear that my aspiration is not driven by personal ambition, but by a deep conviction that Edo South deserves a stronger, more coordinated, and development-focused voice in Abuja.
In continuation of these engagements, I met with leaders and stakeholders of our great party from Ugboko ward at the residence of our leader, Chief Matthew Ehigie. That meeting was deeply personal for me. It was like a homecoming of sorts, but also a moment of accountability.
Addressing the leaders, I acknowledged the ongoing efforts of His Excellency, Monday Okpebholo, and his SHINE Agenda, which is laying a renewed foundation for development, infrastructure expansion, institutional reform, and economic revitalization across Edo State. I made it clear that my potential role at the National Assembly would not operate in isolation but in strategic partnership. My presence in the Senate will complement and reinforce the SHINE Agenda by attracting federal projects, facilitating national-level policy support, securing critical funding, and ensuring that Edo South maximally benefits from federal opportunities. Development must be coordinated, state and federal hands working in alignment for the good of our people.
I also spoke candidly about the longstanding neglect of Orhionmwon and the broader concerns about inadequate representation in Edo South. Our people deserve more than symbolic presence. They deserve federal projects, infrastructure renewal, youth empowerment programmes, agricultural investment, and sustained legislative advocacy that produces measurable results.
I assured the leaders and members present that, if entrusted with this mandate, my representation would be deliberate, strategic, and inclusive. My goal is to ensure that every local government in Edo South feels the tangible impact of purposeful representation.
The highlight of the meeting was a profound demonstration of unity and confidence. Hon. Sunday Okankan moved a motion adopting me as the sole candidate of Edo South for the 2027 Senate seat, and the motion was ably seconded by Hon. Bright Iyamu, Member representing Orhionmwon South in the Edo State House of Assembly. The motion was unanimously adopted without a dissenting voice.
What I witnessed in both meetings was not mere endorsement, but alignment. Not just support, but commitment. From the local government leadership to the ward structure, the message is clear: Edo South is ready for coordinated action, unity within our party, and strategic representation at the national level.
Consultations have begun.
Consolidation is ongoing.
Mobilization will follow.
Together, we will build a stronger Edo South.
Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu Esq
