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๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Nigeria /Elections & Politics

Edo senatorial aspirant urges APC leaders to back best candidate

From The Punch · (5m ago) English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, an aspirant for the Edo South senatorial seat under the All Progressives Congress, urged party leaders to select the most qualified candidate for the ticket.
  • Ogbeide-Ihama, a former House of Representatives member, stated his experience makes him the most suitable candidate and addressed rumors of seeking support from Nyesom Wike.
  • He emphasized the need for the party to consider youth and his past achievements, including providing empowerment initiatives, as reasons for his candidacy.

In the bustling political landscape of Edo State, Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama has thrown his hat into the ring for the Edo South senatorial ticket under the All Progressives Congress (APC). His declaration visit to the party leadership wasn't just a formality; it was a strategic move to assert his experience and suitability for the role.

Ogbeide-Ihama, a seasoned politician with prior service in the House of Representatives, is making a strong case for his candidacy. He argues that his legislative background provides him with the necessary expertise, contrasting himself with potential newcomers who would need to learn on the job. This emphasis on experience is a common theme in Nigerian politics, where a proven track record is often seen as a prerequisite for effective representation.

I appeal to the senatorial leaders of our party to give the ticket to the most qualified aspirant and not treat the ticket as a gift.

โ€” Omoregie Ogbeide-IhamaDuring his declaration visit to the Edo South senatorial district leadership to declare his intention to contest for the Senate.

The aspirant also addressed whispers about seeking support from Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. Far from denying it, Ogbeide-Ihama framed such potential alliances as pragmatic, stating that seeking help is a natural part of the political process. This candid approach reflects a reality where political networks and endorsements can be crucial for securing party tickets and winning elections.

Furthermore, Ogbeide-Ihama is appealing to the party leadership to recognize the growing importance of youth in leadership positions. He believes his energy and drive as a younger aspirant would enable him to effectively champion the interests of the seven local government areas within the Edo South Senatorial District. His commitment to his constituents is underscored by his past initiatives, such as providing street lights and empowerment vehicles, which he pledges to expand if elected.

I heard from some quarters that I have gone to meet the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for help in order to get the partyโ€™s ticket. There is nothing wrong in doing so because everyone needs help, and if meeting Wike can guarantee me the ticket, it is fine by me.

โ€” Omoregie Ogbeide-IhamaAddressing rumors about seeking support from Nyesom Wike for the party ticket.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.