The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has said God and voters play crucial roles in determining the success of candidates seeking political office.

The monarch stated this when the All Progressives Congress APC candidate for Oredo Federal Constituency, Paddy Iyamu, visited his palace on Saturday to seek his royal blessing ahead of the 2027 election campaign.

Oba Ewuare II received Iyamu and his supporters and offered prayers for the candidate, while commending him for showing humility and respect for the customs and traditions of the Benin Kingdom.

The monarch said political authority ultimately rested on the support of God and the people, stressing the importance of candidates remaining connected to their roots.

“Almighty God and the people are crucial in any political setting because it is these two that will combine to give power to those seeking it,” he said.

The Oba also prayed for Iyamu’s success during the campaign and congratulated him on seeking to represent the people of Oredo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

In his response, Iyamu thanked the monarch for the reception and blessings, describing the visit as an important step in his political journey.

He said it was appropriate for him to seek the blessing of the traditional ruler before commencing his campaign activities.

Iyamu also congratulated the Oba on his 10th anniversary on the throne of his ancestors.

The visit formed part of political consultations and mobilisation activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, with candidates and political parties engaging stakeholders and traditional institutions across the country.