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From Tony Osauzo, Benin
A House of Representatives aspirant for Oredo Federal Constituency, on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Paddy Iyamu, has debunked allegations linking him to the agitation for the creation of Toru-Ebe and Anioma states, describing the claims as reckless, baseless and politically motivated.
Iyamu’s reaction followed allegations by a Benin socio-cultural group, Aiguobasimwin Movement Worldwide, that he was pushing for the creation of Toru-Ebe and Anioma states.
In a statement yesterday, the immediate past Edo State Commissioner for Education, “categorically and unequivocally rejected the allegations”, stressing that at no time had he supported or aligned with any agenda capable of undermining the territorial integrity of Benin land or its people.
“These claims are false and deliberately designed to mislead the public and inflame ethnic sentiments,” he said.
The aspirant further dismissed attempts to associate him with the controversial proposals, describing them as laughable and driven by political desperation.
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“It is particularly laughable that any individual or group would attempt to link me with such proposals for their own political relevance and survival,” he stated.
Reacting to claims about his family background, he condemned what he described as a descent into irresponsible politics.
“The attempt to drag personal family background into political discourse is disgraceful. For the avoidance of doubt, my mother is not of Ijaw origin, and such claims only expose the desperation of those behind this smear campaign,” he added.
He further clarified that his political ambition was self-driven and not sponsored, saying, “The insinuation that my ambition is being funded is both false and insulting. I do not require sponsorship from any quarters. I am an accomplished businessman who rose through the banking sector and expanded into oil and gas through hard work and enterprise,” he said.
Affirming his collaboration with key stakeholders, including Omosede Igbinedion and Billy Osawaru, he reiterated his commitment to the unity and progress of the Benin nation, adding, “My aspiration is driven by a genuine commitment to service, integrity and the advancement of Edo people, not by any clandestine or sectional interests.”
He urged the public and APC leaders in Edo South to disregard what he termed malicious fabrications and focus on development-driven discourse, pointing out that “politics should not be reduced to propaganda or emotional manipulation. While we will not be distracted, we reserve the right to pursue all lawful means to protect our integrity.”
