2027: Edo South Senate race heats up as Ize-Iyamu, Ogbeide-Ihama declare
Ize-Iyamu Receives Nomination Forms; Denies Withdrawal Rumors
By Ozioruva Aliu
BENIN CITY — The race for the Edo South Senatorial District seat is intensifying ahead of the 2027 general elections, as Osagie Ize-Iyamu and Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama announce their candidacies under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
On Tuesday, Ize-Iyamu received his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms, which were purchased by friends and political associates. He rejected rumors that he had withdrawn from the race, calling them false and alleging forgery of his letterhead and signature.
Speaking to supporters at his residence, Ize-Iyamu highlighted the collective effort that went into securing the N20 million forms, indicating strong support for his candidacy.
“The decision for me to go to the Senate was not mine alone,” he said. “They put resources together to buy the form and presented it to me. It is not something to be taken for granted.”
Ize-Iyamu expressed gratitude for the backing he has received and reaffirmed his commitment to the campaign. “Your support is not just rhetoric; you have demonstrated it with action. I will not take this for granted,” he added.
Addressing the withdrawal rumors, he stated, “Why will people go to that extent? I have not withdrawn and, by the grace of God, I will not withdraw.”
Meanwhile, Ogbeide-Ihama, during a meeting with APC leaders in Oredo Ward 2, asserted that his eight years in the House of Representatives position him favorably for the Senate seat.
“I am the most experienced among the aspirants,” he said. “What happens in the green chamber is similar to what happens in the red chamber, and my experience gives me an edge.”
Ogbeide-Ihama also opposed calls for zoning the seat within the district, suggesting that such demands could foster division among the Benin people across the seven local government areas.
Earlier, Samson Osagie, a former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Edo State, indicated that stakeholders are rallying behind Ize-Iyamu based on his political track record. He noted that Orhionmwon Local Government Area, Ize-Iyamu’s home base, has yet to produce a senator for the district, despite its significant contributions to the state’s economy. Osagie emphasized that many stakeholders believe it is time for the area to have representation in the Senate.
