Paddy urges journalists to promote development, highlights social interventions



By Elvis Omoregie, Benin

Dr Paddy Iyamu, All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Oredo Federal Constituency in the 2027 general election, has urged journalists to prioritise development-oriented reporting by highlighting policies, programmes and interventions capable of improving the welfare of the people.

Iyamu, a former Edo State Commissioner for Education, made the call on Wednesday during a meeting with members of OTUEDO N’OGBENBE (Benin Journalists Forum) in Benin City, where he emphasised the media’s role in promoting accountability, development and the public interest.

He said his involvement in politics was motivated by a desire to improve the lives of ordinary citizens rather than accumulate wealth, stressing that public office should be used to create opportunities for the less privileged.

Reflecting on his tenure as commissioner for education, Iyamu highlighted interventions he said were aimed at improving educational infrastructure and supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

He also cited his foundation’s free eye surgery programme as part of his social interventions, saying his activities had been driven by a commitment to improving lives before venturing into politics.

The APC candidate expressed confidence in his record and urged voters in Oredo Federal Constituency to support his ambition in the 2027 general election.

Earlier, Edosa Okunbor, convener of OTUEDO N’OGBENBE, said the forum was apolitical and committed to promoting the collective interests of Edo South Senatorial District.

Okunbor said the group recognised sons and daughters of Benin extraction who were making meaningful contributions to the development of the district, irrespective of their political affiliations.

He added that the forum would continue to recognise individuals whose activities and achievements contributed to the progress and welfare of the people of Edo South.

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