…as Ilaboya Declares Interest in Assembly Seat

By Ozioruva Aliu, Benin City

The third-term ambition of the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, has come under renewed opposition from political stakeholders in Owan West Constituency.

Leaders and party members in the area have reportedly mobilised against his return bid, urging him to address issues within the local party structure and align fully with the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of future electoral processes.

A statement issued after a stakeholders’ meeting included party executives, ward leaders, youth and women representatives, as well as former and current political office holders from the constituency.

Among those present were local government party officials, ward executives, and several community stakeholders who deliberated on the political direction of the constituency.

Meanwhile, former Owan West Local Government Chairman and veteran journalist, Frank Ilaboya, has declared his intention to contest for the Owan West State Constituency seat in the Edo State House of Assembly.

Ilaboya made the declaration during a rally in Sabongida-Ora, where he pledged to focus on sustainable youth empowerment and legislative initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods.

He said he would work with the state government to support development efforts, stressing that empowerment should go beyond short-term financial support to skill-based and long-term economic opportunities.

“The usual handouts are not sustainable. We must empower young people with skills that can last,” he said.

Ilaboya also maintained that his ambition was driven by calls from constituents and not personal rivalry with any political officeholder.

He added that the outcome of party primaries would ultimately determine candidates, noting that the APC constitution provides for consensus or direct primaries in selecting flag bearers.

He further stated that voter support demonstrated during his declaration was an indication of growing demand for political change in the constituency.