2027: God, voters determine political power, Edo monarch tells APC candidate

FILE: The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II

The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has said God and the people are crucial to the success of any candidate seeking to win an election.

The revered monarch stated this when the All Progressives Congress candidate for Oredo Federal Constituency, Paddy Iyamu, sought his royal blessing on Saturday ahead of his campaign for the House of Representatives seat.

The meeting took on a father-and-son dimension, with the Oba receiving Iyamu warmly in keeping with the traditional values of the Benin Kingdom.

During the visit, the monarch offered prayers and blessings for the candidate, saying, “it shall be well with you during the campaign”, while commending Iyamu for his humility and respect for the customs and traditions of the kingdom.

Oba Ewuare II told Iyamu that political authority ultimately comes from God and the people, stressing the importance of maintaining a connection with one’s roots.

“Almighty God and the people are crucial in any political setting because it is these two that will combine to give power to those seeking it,” the Oba added.

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In his response, Iyamu expressed appreciation to the monarch for the royal reception and blessings, describing the visit as an important step in his political journey.

He added, “I am the candidate for Oredo Federal Constituency, and it is only wise that before you go out to start dancing, you first come to the house of your father to seek his blessing. We are happy today that His Royal Majesty has given us his blessings, and we are good to go.”

Iyamu, who led party leaders and supporters to the monarch’s palace, also congratulated the traditional ruler on his 10th anniversary on the throne of his ancestors.

The APC candidate’s visit comes as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, with candidates and political parties beginning consultations with stakeholders and traditional institutions across the country.

The visit also provided an opportunity for Iyamu to formally intimate the monarch of his intention to represent the people of Oredo Federal Constituency at the National Assembly.