The All Progressives Congress (APC) has appointed Bassey Otu, the governor of Cross River State, as the chairman of the governorship primary election committee in Edo State. This decision comes after widespread petitions for the removal of Hope Uzodinma, the previous committee chairman.
Hope Uzodinma, who is the governor of Imo and previously chaired the committee, sparked controversy by producing three different candidates and declaring Dennis Idahosa as the winner. In response to the ensuing controversy, the National Working Committee of the APC declared the initial primary election inconclusive and convened an emergency meeting in Abuja. During the meeting, it was resolved that a fresh primary would be conducted on Thursday.
In a surprise move, Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River was unveiled as the chairman of the new committee overseeing the election. Prior to this announcement, there was widespread outcry for the removal of Uzodinma as the committee chairman.
In a joint statement signed by Osagie Ize-Iyamu, Lucky Imasuen, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and General Charles Airhiavbere, the aspirants expressed dissatisfaction with Uzodinma’s leadership, citing non-compliance with the relevant provisions of the laws and regulations guiding the election as provided in both the Electoral Act and the APC Constitution.
