Paddy Iyamu: Is Oredo grassroots politician-mobilizer set for a higher calling?
There are all manner of politicians and political officeholders in the Nigerian political space. Some are noted for incisive oratory. Others have networks in high places. Still, others ride on
- By John Mayaki
There are all manner of politicians and political officeholders in the Nigerian political space. Some are noted for incisive oratory. Others have networks in high places. Still, others ride on their affinity and empathy with the people, while others have made their marks through what they do for the people, individually or collectively, over the years.
The above is the prism through which one should see this young man, Dr. Paddy Emmanuel Iyamu, the Oredo politician of no mean repute, a mobilizer and a political bulldozer from Ward 10.
I came to know him when he supported Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu for governor. He was always on my neck, making sure that everything was done to ensure victory. He worked, spent money, and travelled far and wide for the project. He denied himself sleep and comfort. He did all within his ability, but we lost the election. Trust him to always win his unit and ward.
That’s not all. After we lost, we were downcast, especially about the way forward for him and for Pastor. He even broke down in tears. He had invested heavily. Again, he stood behind Pastor to retrieve the mandate in court, but again, it was not to be. He believed in that cause and fought for it.
The next time I saw him on the political scene was during Senator Monday Okpebholo’s contest. He was simply everywhere, spending and mobilizing as if he were the one contesting the election. Paddy combed all the nooks and crannies. He was a friend of market women and still remains so.
Paddy cannot be accused of not winning his unit or ward. Never. Thankfully, Senator Monday Okpebholo won that election amidst all the odds. It was tough. He went through thick and thin.
And then, it was time for recognition. He was appreciated. The governor recognized those who spent their personal resources without collecting a dime from the party. Paddy was among those who did so. Not long after he was named SUBEB Chairman, where he was already a standout figure in the government, he was redeployed as Commissioner for Education. This drew uproar from some who thought SUBEB was better because it is perceived as more lucrative.
When Governor Monday Okpebholo won his first award as Governor of the Year (Education), it was under Paddy’s tenure as Commissioner for Education.
Similarly, the first open commendation by President Bola Tinubu to Governor Okpebholo was in the area of education—again, during Paddy’s time as Commissioner.
It was through Paddy’s instrumentality that Edo students were able to travel to China and Turkey. In addition, the Google international partnership reflects the tireless efforts of the hardworking Dr. Paddy.
Trust Paddy. He would strike a rock and get water. Put him in the desert, and he will flourish like a tree planted by the water side and even outshine others. And so, as Commissioner for Education, this star performer grew in strength, connections, and delivery. He made the state proud. He brought laurels home and proved himself a good ambassador. These are achievements he hopes to build upon if he secures the ticket to the National Assembly to represent the good people of Oredo Federal Constituency.
Paddy is the kind of child parents want to send on serious errands and expect good results. He is well-connected and uses these connections effectively. The welfare of his people is uppermost in his mind. He does not stand by and watch things happen; he participates fully and makes an impact. He is the type who would knock on any door to ensure results.
Even his detractors acknowledge that he has been a standout figure in this administration. His achievements are significant. Some even fear that there may not be another Paddy in the Ministry of Education by the time he moves to Abuja.
Now, this same man serves as a link between Edo State and the elite political circle, promoting the agenda of President Bola Tinubu across the country. They are known as the City Boy Movement. Consider the caliber of individuals he is already engaging with at that level, where key decisions are made.
But for Paddy, the South-South extraordinary empowerment event coming up on the 23rd in Edo State might have been hosted in Akwa Ibom because of the influence of powerbrokers there. However, Mr. Seyi Tinubu insisted it be held in Edo State. The Senate President, His Excellency Senator Godswill Akpabio, among other dignitaries, will be visiting Edo State; another testament to Paddy’s influence.
I can go on and on detailing reasons why this grassroots politician should represent Oredo Federal Constituency. Thankfully, he is receiving strong support from those who matter: the movers and shakers of the local government area. It now seems that not supporting his ambition amounts to political miscalculation. He is a man of the people who combines the attributes of a grassroots politician with a defining record of performance in public office.
The accomplishments of Paddy come from dedication to serving the interests of the people and his immediate boss. His loyalty is contagious. He is loyal to a fault and committed to every cause he believes in.
Paddy will set unprecedented records if elected as a legislator. As a man who has achieved much through hard work, service to the people, and a “never say die” spirit on any assignment, I do not doubt that he will make Edo State proud.
His steady rise as a technocrat-politician, winning elections at the unit, ward, and local government levels, has marked him out as a tested grassroots politician who cannot be dismissed with a wave of the hand.
