The Benin Solidarity Movement Worldwide (BSM) has cautioned politicians and individuals allegedly exploiting ethnic sentiments to discredit the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Oredo Federal Constituency, Dr Paddy Iyamu.
It described the campaign against him as a calculated act of blackmail driven by envy and jealousy.
The group insisted yesterday that Iyamu remains a respected and accomplished son of Benin Kingdom whose contributions to the development of Edo State, particularly during his tenure as commissioner for education, wre well documented.
In a statement jointly issued by the group’s president, Comrade Curtis Eghosa Ugbo, and the acting secretary-general, Ms Esohe Adun, BSM condemned what it described as desperate attempts by some political elements to question Iyamu’s Benin identity because of his business interests in Delta State.
Ugbo said, “Dr Paddy Iyamu is a successful businessman whose investments and business relationships extend beyond Edo State. His business presence in Delta State does not in any way diminish his Benin ancestry or his unwavering commitment to the development of his homeland.”
Ugbo maintained that everything about Iyamu reflects his Benin heritage, stressing that his family roots, cultural identity and long-standing service to the Benin people are beyond dispute.
He further recalled that Iyamu distinguished himself as Edo State Commissioner for Education under the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo, where he recorded remarkable achievements in educational infrastructure, administration and policy implementation.
According to him, “Dr. Paddy Iyamu has already demonstrated capacity in public office. His performance as Commissioner for Education earned him respect across the state, and it is this wealth of experience that he is bringing to bear in his quest to represent Oredo Federal Constituency.”
The group frowned at what it described as the stock-in-trade of some politicians who resort to blackmail and the manipulation of ethnic sentiments to tarnish the image of credible opponents, insisting that such tactics have no place in democratic politics.
“We therefore warn those behind this campaign of falsehood and ethnic propaganda to desist immediately. Their actions are borne out of envy and jealousy over the growing popularity and acceptance of Dr. Paddy Iyamu among the people.
“Rather than engage in character assassination, they should allow the electorate to assess candidates based on their competence, integrity and track record of service.
“If they fail to stop these malicious attacks, they should be prepared to face the wrath of the Benin Solidarity Movement Worldwide, as we will not stand by and watch one of our illustrious sons subjected to needless blackmail,” Ugbo stated.
The group reaffirmed its confidence in Iyamu’s leadership qualities, expressing optimism that his election would attract greater development to Oredo Federal Constituency and advance the collective interests of Benin Kingdom.
