By Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah
In the approaching Edo State governorship election, the political stage is poised for a spectacle as aspirants from various political quarters vie for the coveted gubernatorial seat. With an array of contenders, each of them distinguished in their own right, the race has taken on a dimension of fierce competition where each seeks their moment to lead.
Political commentators are already speculating on the likely outcome of this looming political clash, particularly within the APC, which appears to be positioned to dominate the upcoming elections. From Edo North to Edo Central and down to Edo South, the aspirants on display are all A-listers, wielding the clout and, of course, the essential resources.
But politics is much more complicated than just being well-known. It demands a careful balance of resources, community ties, policy knowledge, and the ability to effectively represent and lead.
From whispers in the corridors of power and privileged information, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu is poised for a foray into the Edo 2024 Gubernatorial elections, despite the absence of an official declaration. It’s an open secret, and it’s as good as done—Pastor Ize-Iyamu is making his entrance.
However, a new dimension enters the political arena with his arrival.
Pastor Ize-Iyamu’s impending candidacy in the Edo governorship election can be likened to the arrival of a “big masquerade” in the theater of Nigerian politics. He stands as a prominent and seasoned political figure with a substantial following in Edo State.
As a seasoned politician, Pastor Ize-Iyamu has been an active participant in Edo State’s political landscape for numerous years. He has occupied influential positions within the state’s political milieu, affording him an intricate understanding of the region’s political dynamics. His ability to mobilize supporters and command influence within the state makes him an imposing candidate for the upcoming election.
Pastor Ize-Iyamu’s involvement ushers in a fresh wave of political anticipation and amplifies his significance in shaping the ultimate outcome. His candidacy is destined to draw attention and cast a significant influence on the contest, portraying him as the “big masquerade” whose actions and decisions will leave an indelible mark on the Edo governorship election.
Fondly known as “POI,” he has an unparalleled familiarity with the political landscape within the party, akin to knowing the back of his hand. Having previously represented the party in the Edo 2020 governorship election, his prospects in the APC should not be underestimated. His presence in the already crowded aspirant field is poised to set off a storm.
Persistent rumors suggest that he retains strong connections with party executives across the 18 local government areas, a testament to his political acumen and skill. In the complex web of Edo politics, the entrance of Pastor Ize-Iyamu promises to reshape the narrative and, perhaps, herald a political earthquake in the making.
The extent to which this translates into success for the former PDP gubernatorial candidate and the ex-APC gubernatorial candidate remains uncertain. Nonetheless, it’s a sure bet that the race is progressively gaining intrigue day by day.
(Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah writes in from Benin City)
