A chieftain of the Matthew Iduoriyekemwen Ogbeide-Ihama, who is seeking the All Progressives Congress ticket for the Edo South Senatorial District, has defended his decision to seek political backing from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Speaking in Benin City during visits to party leaders where he formally declared his senatorial ambition, Ogbeide-Ihama said there was nothing unusual or improper about building alliances that could strengthen his chances of emerging as the party’s candidate.
His remarks come amid criticism over reports that he had reached out to Wike for support ahead of the party’s primary. Responding to the concerns, the former member of the House of Representatives described political consultations and coalition-building as normal features of democratic contests.
According to him, every serious aspirant must seek support across different political circles in order to improve their chances of success.
“I have heard people say I went to meet Wike. If that is true, there is nothing wrong in it. Everyone needs support. If meeting Wike will guarantee me the ticket, that is fine by me.”
Ogbeide-Ihama noted that elections are not won by chance, but through careful planning, strategic engagement and the ability to build broad-based acceptance within and outside party structures. He cautioned against reading unnecessary meanings into political moves aimed at strengthening an aspirant’s position.
He also argued that the Edo South senatorial ticket is too important to be treated casually, stressing that the party must place competence, capacity and political experience above sentiment when choosing its flagbearer.
The APC stalwart maintained that while several aspirants may be qualified, experience remains a critical factor in delivering effective representation from the first day in office.
“This ticket cannot be gambled with. It is not for learning on the job. All of us are qualified, but having served twice in the House of Representatives, I believe I have the experience needed to deliver from day one.”
Reflecting on his political journey, Ogbeide-Ihama recalled his years in the Peoples Democratic Party, where he said he faced political pressure, intimidation and the removal of campaign materials during elections. Despite those challenges, he said he was still able to secure victory at the polls.
He expressed confidence that joining the APC has placed him in a stronger position ahead of the Edo South contest.
The former lawmaker also highlighted what he described as his track record of constituency service. According to him, his previous time in public office was marked by practical interventions that touched communities directly, including the installation of streetlights, empowerment programmes and other development-focused projects across the district.
Ogbeide-Ihama further used the opportunity to call for a generational shift in the political leadership of Edo South. He said younger politicians possess the energy, drive and grassroots connection needed to effectively represent the seven local government areas that make up the senatorial district.
Earlier, former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Pius Odubu, described the contest as a family affair within the APC. He urged all aspirants and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully and responsibly, noting that the party would eventually produce one candidate to fly its flag in the election.
Ogbeide-Ihama had on Thursday formally flagged off his senatorial campaign at Oredo Ward 2 in Benin City, where he was received by a large crowd of supporters, party members and political associates.
