Esosa Iyawe, a 40‑year‑old graduate of Benson Idahosa University, was elected to represent the Oredo Federal Constituency of Edo State in the House of Representatives during the February 25 National Assembly election. In an interview with Adeyinka Adebipe, he reflected on his recent achievement and his journey into politics.
“I have always been interested in good leadership, but I was put off by the way many Nigerian politicians conduct themselves,” Iyawe explained. “Before you can venture into politics, you need a lot of cash or you must do many things to become a candidate. I was patient, however, and after meeting a noble man like Mr Peter Obi several times in Abuja, I discovered his integrity and impeccable character. When he left the Peoples Democratic Party and became a major force in the Labour Party, I followed him, inquired about the nomination form, and acquired it with my modest savings.”
He noted that the Labour Party form was affordable: “It wasn’t expensive at all—much less than the forms sold by the two big parties. A civil servant could buy it with their salary.” Beyond the cost of the form, Iyawe said that the deteriorating state of affairs in Nigeria motivated his decision to run. “Things get worse as you grow older. Friends are relocating abroad, families cannot afford food, and qualified people cannot find jobs that pay a minimum wage. No sector works well; they are either down or near comatose, while only cabals benefit themselves and their cronies.”
When asked why he chose the Labour Party, Iyawe recounted his frustration with the country’s economic decline. “I even considered moving abroad because the more one works, the less one gets as the naira loses value daily. The cost of living is high, inflation is soaring, and despite our natural resources, we remain underdeveloped. I decided to put my hat in the ring so that, if Obi became president, I could help draft and support bills that would enable him to function well. As an engineer, I believe I have the capacity to positively impact the people of Oredo, and that is why I entered the race.”
Regarding his expectations, Iyawe said he prayed for the constituency to recognize his campaign’s sincerity. “I did not campaign like others. I visited ordinary people who have been used by leaders for years and told them they cannot collect money for votes and still expect to hold power. Collecting money means selling your right to question leaders when things go wrong. My slogan was ‘You either take power or money.’ I told them that taking power means a better future for our children.”
He believes his relatability helped him defeat seasoned politicians. “People saw me as a commoner like them. I go to the same market, buy fuel at the same price, and feel their pain. They sensed my sincerity and wanted a new person who could relate to them.” Iyawe also attributed his victory to the public’s disillusionment with the two leading parties. “Poverty caused by those parties worked in my favour. A few days before the election, an opponent distributed what he called ‘palliative’—rice and money. I told the people that such handouts would only bring another four years of suffering and that they needed real change, which they voted for on February 25.”
On the national stage, Iyawe expressed disappointment with the declaration of Bola Tinubu as the presidential winner. “If Nigerians behaved like the people of Oredo—standing tall on election day—the country would be better. On election day, voters helped solve INEC’s technical problems, provided light when collation was delayed, and ensured their votes counted. Nationally, many did not stand their ground, and that is why Obi lost.” He praised the “Obidient” movement for its role in his victory and urged supporters to continue mobilising. “Go out en masse and vote for Labour Party candidates. Stand your ground as you did on February 25. Modern technology can minimise rigging and electoral malpractice. All LP candidates are Obidients, and I am part of that movement demanding good governance. Keep the fire burning.”
Addressing rumours of defections, Iyawe issued a firm warning: “If you leave now, don’t come back. The Labour Party is a third force that is here to stay. The youth, the elderly, and those with special needs are tired of the old order. The Labour Party will keep other parties in check.” He affirmed his commitment to his constituents, noting that the next four years are crucial.
Finally, Iyawe described how he is helping to raise support for Labour Party candidates in the upcoming State House of Assembly elections. “Those of us who were candidates on February 25 are already working with the state chapter to ensure success on March 11. We want to be part of decision‑making at all levels of government.”
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