Nine gubernatorial aspirants from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have opted to boycott the ward congress, a move that has raised concerns ahead of the upcoming February 22 primary election in the state.
Reportedly, these aspirants, mainly from the Edo PDP Legacy Group – a faction loyal to Dan Orbi, the National Vice Chairman of the party in South-South – have expressed their dissatisfaction with the process and composition of the delegates’ election. Their withdrawal was communicated through a letter to the acting national chairman of the party and the national vice chairman, South-South.
Notably, the signatories of the petition included the deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, Rt Hon Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, Anselm U. Ojezua, Hon Felix Akhabue, Amb. Martin Uhomoibhi, Hadizat Umoru, Hon. Omosede Igbinedion, Dr Earl Osaro Onaiwu, and Barr. Arthur Esene.
Additionally, the chairman of the three-man committee, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, withdrew from the exercise. His withdrawal made way for the vice chairman and Enugu State governor, Peter Mbah, to step in.
Governor Mbah, commended the high turnout of party supporters for the exercise, addressing them at the George Idah Primary School Benin City, the collation center for Ward 2. He emphasized the principles of fairness, equity, and justice, urging the party faithful to conduct themselves properly during the election.
Speaking to journalists at his Ward 4 Collation Centre, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State downplayed the party crisis, assuring that it would not impact the outcome of the forthcoming governorship election. He expressed contentment with the robust turnout of over 600 people at the center, demonstrating the political awareness of the populace.
Regarding Governor Makinde’s resignation from the committee, Governor Obaseki expressed his belief in the credibility of the process, suggesting that the quality of participation determines credibility. He remained undeterred, emphasizing the party’s role in the country’s politics.
In response to the non-participation of members of the Legacy Coalition of the PDP, Governor Obaseki pointed out the significant crowd at the event, challenging the notion of a fundamental crisis and reaffirming resilience against external influence.
The discontent within the PDP preceding the primary election sets the stage for potential tension and uncertainty with ramifications that could extend to the political landscape of the state and beyond.
