Kingsley Ohens reporting
Benin City, Edo State — A significant political moment unfolded in Edo State as Rt. Hon. Ogbeide Ihama formally declared his intention to contest for the Senate, representing Edo South Senatorial District, in a well-attended event at the All Progressives Congress (APC) Secretariat, Ward 2, along Airport Road in Benin City.
The declaration ceremony drew a large gathering of party leaders, executives, grassroots mobilisers, supporters, and well-wishers, effectively transforming the venue into a vibrant hub of political engagement. Among those present were notable party stakeholders, including Sunny Omokaro, Ward Chairman, Vice Chairman Johnbull, alongside ward executives and influential leaders within the party structure.
In his opening address, Ihama warmly greeted party leaders and faithful, expressing gratitude for the enthusiastic reception accorded him in his home ward. He noted that he has resigned from national responsibilities previously entrusted to him by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in order to fully concentrate on grassroots politics and his senatorial ambition.
Reintroducing himself to constituents, Ihama highlighted his legislative track record, noting that he had successfully contested and won elections into the House of Representatives twice. He emphasised that his experience in lawmaking and political engagement positions him as a strong contender for the Senate.
“I have come to formally inform my leaders and seek your prayers as I embark on this senatorial journey,” he stated, while acknowledging that other aspirants are qualified, but stressing that his depth of legislative experience, resilience, and electoral victories—particularly under challenging circumstances—distinguish him.
Positioning his candidacy as a “consolidated ticket,” Ihama underscored the strategic importance of experience in the National Assembly, describing it as an institution that requires not only competence and capacity but also lobbying strength, political sagacity, and tenacity.
“We cannot treat the Senate ticket as a tool for compensation. It demands proven competence, capacity, sagacity, and tenacity,” he asserted.
Ihama also commended the developmental strides of Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, noting that his aspiration to the Senate is driven by a commitment to complement and strengthen the governor’s ongoing efforts at the federal level through effective representation, strategic advocacy, and legislative support.
He further assured supporters that his representation would transcend local interests, pledging to serve the entire Edo South Senatorial District rather than any single locality. Ihama also expressed confidence in securing both the party ticket and eventual electoral victory for the APC, aligning his ambition with broader party success and support for President Tinubu’s administration.
The aspirant concluded his remarks by urging supporters to maintain decorum and unity throughout the political process, while extending heartfelt appreciation to Ward 2 leaders and members for their unwavering support.
In their separate goodwill messages, Elder Osayi Adun counselled Ihama to remain measured in his remarks and to regard fellow aspirants as partners rather than adversaries. He offered prayers for wisdom, guidance, and success in the aspirant’s political journey. Similarly, Chief Marculary, speaking on behalf of the elders, led prayers for Ihama and his campaign team.
The atmosphere at the APC Secretariat was electric, with Ward 2 in Oredo Local Government Area witnessing a massive turnout that effectively “locked down” the area. Women and youths, adorned in colourful attire, added vibrancy to the occasion with cultural songs and dance, underscoring widespread grassroots enthusiasm for the declaration.
The event marks a pivotal step in the unfolding political contest for the Edo South Senatorial seat, positioning Rt. Hon. Ogbeide Ihama as a prominent contender within the APC ranks.
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