As the political atmosphere in Edo State continues to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, one name has consistently stood out in the Esan West/Esan Central/Igueben Federal Constituency Hon. Marcus Onobun, a federal lawmaker whose leadership style, performance, and unwavering commitment to community development have earned him respect across party lines.
Today, as he seeks the All Progressives Congress (APC) for a second term, an increasing number of stakeholders agree that he represents the party’s best chance at retaining the seat and strengthening its relevance in Edo Central.
Hon. Onobun’s second-term ambition has received a subtle backing of Governor Monday Okpeholo , whose support signals recognition of the federal lawmaker’s value to the APC and the people of Edo State.
Analysts say that such endorsement is not given lightly; it is earned through performance, loyalty, and an evident capacity to deliver results where many others merely make promises.
Despite murmurs from a small faction within the party claiming that Onobun once “abandoned” the APC for the PDP earlier in his political journey, the lawmaker’s return and his subsequent service record have shown that his commitment to the APC is both renewed and genuine.
Politics is often a journey of evolving convictions, and Hon. Onobun has repeatedly emphasized that he is now fully aligned with the progressive ideals of the APC. More importantly, his constituents whose voices ultimately matter the most continue to testify to the impact of his representation.
Some of his impact includes renovated, equipping of health centres, provision of solar-powered boreholes, and the provision of transformers
Others empowerment programs turning ordinary people into entrepreneurs and fertilizer distribution easing the burden on farmers across the three LGAs among other laudable interventions.
Speaking to journalists in Ekpoma, a senior APC stakeholder in Edo Central stated that ” Hon. Onobun ‘s achievements in office show beyond reasonable doubt that he is working for the people. Whatever his political trajectory in the past, his performance today is what defines, him, and that is why many of us believes he deserves a second term”.
Onobun’s achievements speak for themselves. In just his first term, he has pushed boundaries in legislative advocacy, community empowerment, youth development, and infrastructural facilitation.
One of his most applauded interventions is the expansion of access to rural electrification, enabling several underserved communities to experience stable community lighting for the first time in years. This project alone has revived small businesses, strengthened local security, and improved the general living conditions of residents.
Similarly, his innovative youth empowerment initiatives have created new paths for financial independence across his constituency. From vocational skills programs to startup grants for small entrepreneurs, Hon. Onobun’s empowerment model is widely regarded as one of the most impactful in Edo Central. Local beneficiaries often recall how these interventions helped them regain hope during tough economic conditions.
Hon. Onobun also distinguished himself with his Legislative performance , sponsoring and supporting bills that directly benefit rural communities and advocate for improved national policies.
His pragmatic approach to lawmaking listening first, consulting widely, and prioritizing the most pressing needs has earned him the admiration of both colleagues and citizens.
A youth leader from Igueben affirmed this when he remarked, ” What stands out Hon. Onobun is not just that he brings projects, but that he has time for the people. He listens. He calls us together. He makes us feel included . That is why the youths are behind him.
Beyond his achievements, Hon. Onobun’s temperament, humility and accessibility have positioned him as a unifying figure at a time when the APC in Edo Central needs stability and strategic strength.
His strong relationship with Governor Okpeholo and his growing acceptance across wards make him a candidate capable of not only winning the primary but also delivering victory in the general election.
Political observers believe that those opposing his second-term bid are driven more by personal ambition than genuine party interest.
The APC must present its strongest candidate, and Hon. Onobun’s track record provides a clear advantage. His journey is one of growth, service, and maturity, and many believe that a second term would unlock even greater possibilities for his constituency.
For his part, Hon. Onobun remains calm, confident, and optimistic. He has repeatedly maintained that he will run a clean campaign anchored on his performance and his plans for the future.
In his words,” What I offer is continuity, stability, and a renewed commitment to the people I serve. My work is visible, my intention are clear, and I believe than mandate in 2027.
As the APC prepares for its primaries, the choice before party delegates is straightforward: retain a performer who has proven himself capable of delivering or gamble on the unknown. Hon. Marcus Onobun stands today not just as a candidate but as a symbol of consistent representation, developmental growth, and progressive leadership.
The people have seen the difference. The governor has spoken. The stakeholders are taking their stand. And across Esan West, Esan Central, and Igueben, the message is becoming clear: Hon Marcus Onobun is the right man for the APC and the right representative for the constituency.
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