Smear Campaign Fails as Ize-Iyamu Stands Out as Edo South’s Strongest Senatorial Prospect
By EDOKO WILSON EDOKO
The article by Prof. Ikhimwin Osagiede is a calculated attempt to incite fear, distort political realities, and mislead the people of Edo South—particularly the Benins into believing that the emergence of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu is a threat to their collective political future. This narrative is not only false but clearly self-serving and fundamentally flawed.
Let it be stated plainly: Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu is not a threat to Edo South; he remains one of its greatest political assets.
The claim that Edo South risks losing “ranking legislators” is misleading. Legislative ranking is not automatic, it is earned through competence, strategic relevance, and effective representation. Pastor Ize-Iyamu brings decades of political experience across party lines, a proven grassroots mobilization network, and a deep understanding of governance and legislative dynamics.
If anything, his emergence enhances Edo South’s prospects of securing a stronger, more impactful voice in Abuja, not diminishing it.
The allegation of a coordinated plot from Edo North to weaken Edo South is speculative and unsupported by credible evidence. It reflects a familiar political tactic, manufacturing imaginary threats to manipulate public sentiment. Pastor Ize-Iyamu is a proud Benin son whose political roots and influence are firmly grounded in Edo South. Portraying him as a tool against his own people is both illogical and disrespectful.
Furthermore, the argument for returning incumbents “at all costs” promotes stagnation rather than progress. Democracy thrives on performance, accountability, and the freedom to choose not entitlement or automatic continuity. Edo South deserves the most capable candidate, not just familiar faces. If current officeholders have performed well, they should confidently present their records to the people rather than rely on emotional appeals.
Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu’s track record is well established. He has served as Secretary to the Edo State Government and Chief of Staff, consistently championing grassroots development. His policy-driven approach, exemplified by the SIMPLE agenda, reflects a clear vision for governance. His administrative experience, political structure, and people-oriented leadership are precisely the qualities Edo South requires at the Senate.
The article also attempts to sow division within Edo South by promoting fear and suspicion. However, the true path forward lies in unity, inclusiveness, and strategic thinking. Edo South risks political irrelevance not by welcoming new leaders, but by resisting fresh ideas, sidelining capable individuals, and allowing propaganda to dictate its choices.
Rather than focusing on who should “return,” the people of Edo South must ask the right questions: Who can effectively represent our interests at the national level? Who possesses the network, influence, and competence to attract development? Who understands both grassroots realities and national politics? On all these fronts, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu stands out convincingly.
In conclusion, this so-called warning is nothing more than a politically motivated smear campaign aimed at protecting entrenched interests. Edo South must not be misled.
Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu’s aspiration is not a disruption but a strategic opportunity to strengthen representation, deepen influence, and reposition Edo South for greater relevance at the national level.
Edo South deserves progress—not propaganda.
*Edoko Wilson Edoko, writes from Iguobazuwa*
