Edo South 2027: Ihama makes case for experience, youthful energy

Former House of Representatives member and Edo South senatorial aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, has urged party leaders in the district to prioritise competence, experience, and capacity in selecting the party’s candidate for the forthcoming senatorial election.

Speaking in Benin City on Saturday during a consultative visit to the leadership of the Edo South Senatorial District, Ogbeide-Ihama said the contest should not be treated as a game of chance, stressing that the ticket must go to the most qualified aspirant.

According to him, while all aspirants in the race possess the credentials to contest, his legislative background—having served two terms in the House of Representatives—gives him a strategic advantage in delivering effective representation at the Senate.

“This is not a game of luck or gambling. It is about competence, capacity, and readiness to serve. I believe I have the experience required and should not be learning on the job,” he said.

Addressing reports that he had allegedly reached out to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for political support, Ogbeide-Ihama said there was nothing wrong with seeking alliances that could strengthen his chances in the race.

“In politics, everyone needs support. If meeting relevant stakeholders can guarantee the ticket, there is nothing wrong with that,” he stated.

The former lawmaker also reflected on his political journey, recalling challenges encountered during previous elections under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including repeated removal of his campaign billboards.

Despite the setbacks, he said he emerged victorious, expressing confidence that his defection to the APC positions him more favourably for the senatorial contest.

Ogbeide-Ihama further made a case for generational inclusion in governance, urging party stakeholders to recognise the growing role of youth in leadership and nation-building.

Describing himself as energetic and result-driven, he pledged to expand constituency development initiatives—such as the provision of street lighting, empowerment schemes, and community support programmes—to all seven local government areas in Edo South if elected.

Responding, Edo South Senatorial District leader and former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Pius Odubu, described the contest as a family affair within the APC, noting that while several aspirants are seeking the ticket, only one candidate will eventually emerge.

Odubu urged Ogbeide-Ihama and other aspirants to conduct their campaigns peacefully and in accordance with party rules, emphasising the need for unity ahead of the elections.