APC
By DADA. AYOKHAI
Dr. Saliu Momoh, Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Manifesto Drafting Committee, has formally joined the race for the Owan Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives.
Momoh, one of the 60 founding members of the APC nationwide and one of six from Edo State, declared his intention at a flag-off event in Warrake, Owan East Local Government Area.
Addressing APC executives and leaders in Owan East at Afuze, the aspirant described himself as the most qualified contender, citing his extensive experience in party administration and governance across various roles.
He added that his academic background also distinguishes him, noting that he holds four postgraduate degrees in Public Administration with a specialisation in public finance.
“I deemed it necessary to begin my consultations at the local government secretariat of my party to meet with executives and leaders because party supremacy is enshrined in our constitution,” he said.
Momoh further emphasised his role in shaping the APC’s guiding principles, stating that he played a central role in drafting the party’s manifesto.
“The manifesto guiding the APC today was produced by a committee chaired by the late Chief Audu Ogbeh, where I served as secretary. In fact, the entire drafting process revolved around me,” he added.
He also highlighted his status as one of the party’s founding fathers alongside prominent figures such as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former President Muhammadu Buhari, and former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole, stressing that his contributions position him as a strong candidate for the party’s ticket.
Listing key figures involved in the formation of the APC from Edo State and the South-South region, Momoh mentioned Chief John Odigie Oyegun, Chief Tom Ikimi, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, and former Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire.
The former state secretary and treasurer of the party argued that founding members of the APC deserve recognition and political opportunities for their sacrifices in building what he described as Africa’s largest political party.
“I am the only one among the Edo founding members who has neither been given an elective ticket nor appointed to a major political office at the state or federal level. Now is the time for me to be considered,” he said.
Momoh also advocated for the zoning of the Owan Federal Constituency seat to Ward 11 in Owan East, noting that other wards within the axis have benefitted from elective and appointive positions, leaving his ward without representation.
He stated that, if elected, he would not criticise past representatives but would instead leverage his political experience and networks to drive development across Owan.
During a visit to the palace of the Ogieagbase of Warrake, His Royal Highness Nasiru Oseni Igbadia, Momoh sought royal blessings for his aspiration.
He argued that the Warrake community, which he said has consistently supported others in achieving political positions, should now ballowedty to produce the next representative.
He pointed out that Afuze currently has a commissioner in the state cabinet, Ihievbe has produced a chairmanship candidate for the forthcoming local government elections, while Ivbiaro boasts key appointments including the Managing Director of EdoJobs and the acting chairman of the council.
“Warrake has supported others over the years. This is the time to reciprocate that support. I urge our royal fathers and party leaders to back my aspirations,” he appealed.
Responding on behalf of the traditional ruler, the Daudu of Warrake, Chief Agbokhagwele Alimigwe, commended Momoh for his contributions to the development of the community and pledged the palace’s support for his ambition.
He noted that the constituency stands to benefit from Momoh’s experience, describing him as a capable politician who can attract development and ensure equitable distribution of democratic dividends across Owan.
APC Manifesto Committee Secretary Momoh Joins Owan Reps Race
