For the first time in Edo State’s gubernatorial election history, the number of aspirants has skyrocketed to over 68 across the major political parties. ADEYINKA ADEDIPE takes a deep dive into the resurgence of veteran campaigners and the emergence of new contenders seeking to disrupt the existing political order.
Optimism runs deep in the veins of politicians. Even when the odds seem insurmountable, their unwavering belief in clinching victory remains unshaken. This sentiment is not unfounded in a country where a candidate who finished third in an election eventually assumed office after a court ruled in their favor, citing the “highest valid vote” as the determining factor.
In this vein of unyielding optimism, both seasoned stalwarts and fresh faces in Edo State are fervently declaring their ambitions to contest the gubernatorial seat in 2024. As of the latest tally, a total of 68 aspirants from the Peoples Democratic Party, All Progressives Congress, and the Labour Party have staked their claims, with more expected to join the fray. Among them, the Labour Party boasts 28 aspirants, the APC has 29, and the PDP has 11, with indications pointing to further participation from smaller parties.
In a remarkable blend of new blood and seasoned figures, the APC’s decision not to yield to calls for zonal ticket allocation may spur even more aspirants to enter the race.
In an unexpected turn, the state APC chairman, Col. David Imuse (retd), has thrown his hat into the ring, joining the ranks of incumbent senators and members of the House of Representatives. Notable figures such as Kassim Afegbua, former Commissioner for Information and spokesperson to General Ibrahim Babangida (retd), and Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, the APC’s 2020 flagbearer, are reportedly in the mix. Gen. Charles Airhiavbere (retd), a former Accountant General of the Nigeria Army and Director of Finance administration of NDDC, is also vying for the APC ticket.
Among the stalwart campaigners, Kenneth Imasuagbon, who has contested the position four times under different political banners, is now eyeing the seat for the fifth time, this time under the LP. During a visit to Igarra in Akoko Edo Local government, Imasuagbon stirred public discourse by urging party loyalists not to entrust the ticket to political novices, drawing comparisons to Olumide Akpata, a former Nigeria Bar Association member, and Dorry Okogie, the first House of Representatives member, whom he labeled as “newbies in politics.” He cautioned against voting for unpopular candidates, advocating for a candidate with widespread appeal to challenge the PDP and APC.
Amidst the fervor, the state’s deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, at odds with Governor Godwin Obaseki over his bid to succeed his superior, declared his candidacy last week. Flaunting a three-decade-long political career, Shaibu expressed his readiness to carry forward the strides made by his mentor. An ally, Immam Babangida, affirmed Shaibu’s potential to clinch the PDP ticket if the party ensures a level playing field for all contenders.
Meanwhile, Governor Obaseki has thrown his weight behind Asuen Ighodalo, Chairman of Sterling Bank, introducing him to party leaders across the three senatorial districts. Although Ighodalo is yet to formalize his aspiration, his consultations with stakeholders in Edo Central, his birthplace, serve as a precursor to his potential declaration. Backed by a national reputation as a technocrat, Ighodalo envisions steering the state towards further development.
Noteworthy among the first-time contenders is Dennis Idahosa, the incumbent representative of Ovia Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, celebrated for his widespread appeal, dynamism, and youthfulness. Idahosa, reputed for overcoming the political stronghold of the Igbinedion dynasty, has endeared himself to the electorate through infrastructural projects in his constituency, positioning himself favorably amongst party leaders for the APC ticket.
Another contender, Johnson Agbonayinma, a former Senior Special Adviser to Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, ex-member of the House of Representatives, and former Board member of the Nigerian Railway Corporation and acting chairman of the Code of Conduct Bureau, adds another layer of intrigue to the contest.
Breaking the traditional mold, women contenders Dr. Angela Ason-Aburime, Dr. Loretta Ogboror-Okor, and Dr. Emily Okojie are making significant strides in the LP’s bid for the governor’s seat.
Considering the surging number of aspirants and its implications for the succession race, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, the state PDP Chairman, expressed optimism about the democratic vibrancy exhibited, emphasizing the presence of aspirants renowned for their capacity, character, and credibility within the party.
Aziegbemi’s sentiments were echoed by the Publicity Secretary of the state LP, Sam Uroupa, who lauded the influx of aspirants, underscoring its positive impact on the democratic landscape.
As the political arena in Edo State brims with an unprecedented flux of contenders, the stage is set for a monumental power play that could redefine the state’s political landscape.
The Battle for Edo State: Aspirants Vow to Bring Change Amidst High Political Stakes
In the heart of Edo State, a fierce political battle is brewing as aspirants from various political parties gear up to contest for the governorship seat. With the political landscape teeming with aspirants from the Labour Party (LP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC), the state stands at a crossroads, yearning for a transformation that promises to bring succor to its beleaguered citizens.
Amidst the surge in aspirants vying for the coveted seat, the LP chairman, Adamu Enebeli, emphasized the party’s appeal as the beacon of hope for Edo State. He underscored the need for a departure from the status quo, citing the weariness of the Edo people with the prevailing insecurities, dilapidated infrastructure, and economic downturn wrought by the misrule of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the APC over the years.
Enebeli exuded confidence in the LP’s potential, highlighting the party’s ethos symbolized by the family-centric logo. He posited that by prioritizing the well-being of the family unit, the broader society stands to reap the benefits. Moreover, he elucidated that the multitude of aspirants gravitating towards the LP signifies a collective yearning for change and a platform to actualize their visionary plans for the state.
Assuring a fair and transparent selection process, Enebeli echoed the party’s commitment to providing a level playing ground for all aspirants, quelling concerns of discord and confusion. With the promise of an impartial primary election and a meticulous screening process, the LP seeks to pave the way for a seamless transition of power, anchored in transparency and credibility.
On the other end of the political spectrum, the APC’s publicity secretary, Peter Uwadiae, attributed the surge in aspirants to the party’s equitable and inclusive environment. Emphasizing the absence of zoning restrictions, Uwadiae delineated the APC’s allure as a magnet for individuals with the mettle and credentials to lead Edo State. Furthermore, he underscored the party’s steadfast commitment to conducting a seamless primary election, assuring prospective aspirants of a rigorous yet equitable selection process.
Uwadiae’s sentiments echoed the burgeoning political awareness among the Edo populace, signifying a population increasingly attuned to the intricacies of governance and leadership. As the influx of aspirants signifies a burgeoning political consciousness, it serves as a harbinger of a more astute electorate, poised to reap the dividends of a discerning political landscape.
As the political tides swell in Edo State, the deluge of aspirants from divergent political factions sets the stage for a riveting battle of ideologies and visions. The state stands on the precipice of change, with the fierce competition underscoring the collective yearning for a brighter, more prosperous future, culminating in a pivotal election that will shape the destiny of Edo State.
In the crucible of democracy, the aspirations of the Edo people converge with the ardor of political contenders, coalescing into a potent force that heralds the dawning of a new era for the state.
