BENIN CITY — A former Chairman of Oredo Local Government Area in Edo State and founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Osaro Obazee, has declared his intention to contest for the party’s ticket to represent Oredo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, promising effective and quality representation.
Obazee made the declaration on Thursday during a ceremony held at the APC Local Government Secretariat, attended by prominent political leaders from the 12 wards that make up the constituency.
Speaking at the event, the aspirant said it was time for the party to reward loyal members who had remained committed during difficult periods in its history.
Several party leaders who addressed the gathering described Obazee as a steadfast member who stood by the APC during challenging times, adding that supporting his aspiration would be a way of recognising his loyalty and contributions to the party’s growth.
Obazee stated that his years of dedication to the party and his record of service as council chairman had prepared him to effectively represent the people at the Green Chamber of the National Assembly.
“The labourer deserves his wages. We have laboured in the vineyard of the APC and we deserve the reward. We worked across the nooks and crannies of the state to achieve the successes recorded by the party,” he said.
According to him, party members endured years in opposition in the state before eventually gaining power through the collective efforts of committed members.
“We were in the opposition in the state for a good eight years, but today, with the efforts of some of us, the party is now in power. I will not distance myself from the people after joining hands with others to achieve the successes recorded by the party,” he added.
He also assured constituents that he would remain accessible to the people if elected, stressing that public service should remain people-centred.
“For me to distance myself from my people after being elected, I would rather not contest,” he said.
Obazee further commended Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo for what he described as visible developmental strides across the state, expressing confidence that the governor’s performance would strengthen the party’s chances in future elections.
“It is because of the developmental projects seen across the state that some of us have the confidence to step forward to contest. If we had campaigned on his behalf and he had not performed well, we would not have had the courage to present ourselves for election,” he said.
He maintained that his political ambition was driven by a desire to serve the people and address their needs.
“I am not in politics out of desperation. I am in politics to ensure that the needs of my people are met. Our mission is to ensure that our people are truly represented,” Obazee stated.
