Irowa vows to ‘rescue’ Oredo, promises healthcare, youth empowerment
By Elvis Omoregie, Benin
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for Oredo Federal Constituency in the 2027 general election, Dr Osamwonyi Irowa, has pledged to pursue a people-centred development agenda focused on accessible healthcare, youth empowerment, women’s economic inclusion and impactful constituency projects.
Irowa made the pledge while speaking with journalists during his visit to celebrate the 92nd birthday of Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, Esama of Benin Kingdom.
He said his campaign was anchored on using his experience and expertise to deliver measurable development to Oredo, rather than making promises that would remain unfulfilled.
According to him, Oredo needs effective representation that prioritises the welfare of constituents, stressing that his ambition was to “rescue Oredo and rescue Edo” through practical interventions and purposeful representation.
“I may not come and give you money in your house. I don't have money to compete with government. But the truth is that I have the trust, the intellect, the experience and the ability to deliver the goods to the people,” Irowa said.
On healthcare, the ADC candidate promised to work towards ensuring that residents have access to affordable and functional health facilities within reasonable distances of their communities.
He said his focus would go beyond constructing health centres to ensuring that facilities were properly equipped and staffed to provide actual medical services.
“We want to reduce all those challenges in health by making sure that people have ready access to affordable and accessible health facilities,” he said, adding that residents should not have to travel long distances to access basic healthcare.
Irowa also pledged to prioritise youth development by creating opportunities that would enable young people to build their futures within Oredo, while supporting women’s economic empowerment.
He described women as “the strength of the home” and said greater attention would be given to initiatives that would enhance their economic independence and capacity to support their families.
The retired permanent secretary said his experience, resilience and knowledge of Oredo placed him in a strong position to represent the constituency, noting that he had spent most of his life in the area.
“I grew up here. Everything that I have celebrated as success, they were all achieved in this Oredo,” he said.
Irowa urged residents to support the ADC in the 2027 elections, saying the party offered an alternative approach to governance and representation.
He also called on voters to support the party’s candidates across elective positions, urging them to use the election to choose leaders committed to putting the interests of the people first.