The leadership of organised labour in Edo State has endorsed the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Oredo Federal Constituency, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, ahead of the 2027 general elections, citing his record in education reform and workers’ welfare.
The endorsement was declared during a solidarity visit by labour leaders led by the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Edo State, Comrade Bernard Eguakhide, alongside the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Comrade Lucky Imaruegheru.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Imaruegheru said Iyamu’s track record as Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) and later Commissioner for Education formed the basis of their support.
“We are here today to formally congratulate Dr. Paddy Iyamu on his emergence and to identify with his aspiration to represent Oredo Federal Constituency. His victory is well deserved because it is founded on service, commitment and results,” he said.
He said Iyamu’s tenure in office led to significant interventions in the education sector, including scholarships for students and the recruitment of thousands of teachers.
“Thousands of Edo students benefitted from scholarship opportunities during Iyamu’s tenure, while more than 5,000 teachers secured employment under policies introduced during his administration,” he said.
Imaruegheru added that Iyamu introduced reforms that improved teacher capacity development, facilitated training programmes, and ensured the resolution of long-standing promotion issues affecting workers in the education sector.
“He brought innovation into the education sector, facilitated capacity-building programmes for teachers and ensured the release of long-standing promotions. These are tangible achievements that continue to speak for him,” he said.
The labour leaders stressed that their endorsement was based on performance rather than political promises, adding that Iyamu had demonstrated commitment to workers’ welfare.
“This endorsement is not based on promises but on a proven record of performance and commitment to the welfare of teachers, workers and the people of Edo State,” he added.
They expressed confidence in his capacity to provide effective representation if elected to the House of Representatives.
Responding, Iyamu expressed appreciation for the endorsement, describing it as a strong vote of confidence in his leadership and public service record.
“I am deeply grateful for this overwhelming show of solidarity and support. Your endorsement reinforces my determination to continue serving our people with dedication and integrity,” he said.
He assured the labour leaders that their interests would remain a priority if elected, pledging to be a strong voice for Oredo Federal Constituency at the National Assembly.
“I will not fail you. I will take your voices, aspirations and concerns to the National Assembly. Oredo deserves effective representation, and I am committed to ensuring that our people are heard and well represented,” Iyamu stated.
