Osifo Resigns as Edo Water Commissioner, Declares for Reps

By Elvis Omoregie, Benin 


Washington Osifo, the Edo State Commissioner for Water Resources and Sanitation, has resigned from his position in order to contest the House of Representatives seat for the Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency.

Osifo announced his resignation on Wednesday during a visit to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Council in Benin City, where he formally informed journalists of his intention to seek elective office.

According to him, his decision to step down from the State Executive Council was in compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act which requires political appointees seeking elective positions to resign at least 30 days before party primaries.

He noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had earlier released a revised timetable for the electoral process, indicating that party primaries would hold between April 22 and May 20, thereby necessitating his resignation in March.

In obedience to the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, particularly the Electoral Act and the Constitution, any appointed public office holder who intends to contest an election must resign at least 30 days before the primaries,” Osifo said.

He explained that resigning early would allow him adequate time to engage with constituents across the federal constituency rather than entering the race at the last minute.

Osifo, who has served as commissioner three times in Edo State, said his decision to seek election into the National Assembly was driven by a desire to take on new challenges and expand his contributions to public service.

“This is my third time serving as a commissioner and I consider it a great privilege. However, after serving at this level for some time, one begins to seek new challenges and opportunities to contribute more meaningfully,” he said.

The former commissioner added that he intends to leverage his experience in governance and policymaking to contribute to national development if elected to the House of Representatives.

Meanwhile, Osifo also announced the appointment of Evangelist Tony Osazuwa, Ph.D., as Director-General of his campaign organisation for the Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency.

He expressed confidence that with the support of his constituents and campaign team, he would be able to present a strong platform focused on development and effective representation.

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