APC founding member Saliu Momoh joins race for Owan Federal Constituency
By Jethro Ibileke
A founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Saliu Momoh, has formally joined the race for the Owan Federal Constituency in next year’s general election.
Momoh who was one of the 60 founding members of the party nationwide and the Secretary of Manifesto Drafting Committee of the APC, declared his intention during a flag-off event held in Warrake, Owan East Local Government Area of Edo State.
Speaking during a meeting with executives and leaders of the APC in Owan East at Afuze, the aspirant described himself as the most qualified contender for the seat.
He cited his extensive experience in party administration and governance through various roles he has held as reason why he should be given the ticket.
He also noted that his academic background, which include four postgraduate degrees in Public Administration, with a specialisation in public finance, gives him added advantage over other contenders.
“I deemed it necessary to begin my consultations at the local government secretariat of my party to meet with executives and leaders because party supremacy is enshrined in our constitution,” he said.
Momoh further emphasised his role in shaping the APC’s guiding principles, stating that he played a central role in drafting the party’s manifesto.
“The manifesto guiding the APC today was produced by a committee chaired by the late Chief Audu Ogbeh, where I served as secretary. In fact, the entire drafting process revolved around me,” he added.
He also highlighted his status as one of the party’s founding fathers alongside prominent figures such as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former President Muhammadu Buhari, and former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole, stressing that his contributions position him as a strong candidate for the party’s ticket.
The former state secretary and treasurer of the party argued that founding members of the APC deserve recognition and political opportunities for their sacrifices in building what he described as Africa’s largest political party.
“I am the only one among the Edo founding members who has neither been given an elective ticket nor appointed to a major political office at the state or federal level. Now is the time for me to be considered,” he said.
Momoh who advocated for the zoning of the Owan Federal Constituency seat to Ward 11 in Owan East, notes that other wards within the axis have benefitted from elective and appointive positions, leaving his ward without representation.
Responding on behalf of the traditional ruler, the Daudu of Warrake, Chief Agbokhagwele Alimigwe, commended Momoh for his contributions to the development of the community and pledged the palace’s support for his ambition.
He noted that the constituency stands to benefit from Momoh’s experience, describing him as a capable politician who can attract development and ensure equitable distribution of democratic dividends across Owan federal constituency.