In a dramatic turn of events, members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State have stormed the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, denouncing the declaration of Senator Monday Okpebholo as the winner of the rescheduled Edo governorship primary election. The aggrieved members, led by Innocent Ogedengbe, have branded the outcome as a clear violation of the party’s constitution.
The primary election, which took place on February 17 under the supervision of Imo State Governor Senator Hope Uzodinma, saw the emergence of three candidates: Dennis Idahosa, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and Anamero Dekeri. Following disputes, Uzodinma was removed as the chairman of the primary election, and replaced by Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu.
The subsequent election on February 22 resulted in Monday Okpebholo being named the APC’s gubernatorial candidate for the upcoming September 2024 election. However, Ogedengbe and his group demand the reinstatement of Idahosa as the rightful nominee, citing violations of the Electoral Act and unequal opportunities for aspirants during the voting process.
During the protest, Ogedengbe expressed dissatisfaction with the election procedures, claiming that votes were not accurately recorded, and result sheets were allegedly fabricated at the party’s National Secretariat. He emphasized that the primaries did not adhere to the APC constitution’s requirement of open secret balloting, signaling a disregard for democratic principles.
In a bold statement to journalists, Ogedengbe called for the nullification of Okpebholo’s victory and urged the party to recognize Idahosa as the legitimate candidate based on compelling evidence. The protesters remain steadfast in their demand for justice, hoping to overturn what they perceive as a grave injustice perpetuated by the party leadership.
The unfolding turmoil within the Edo APC underscores deep-seated tensions and challenges plaguing the party, raising questions about transparency, fairness, and adherence to democratic norms in the political landscape. As the controversy escalates, all eyes are on the APC leadership to navigate this crisis and uphold the principles of democracy and fairness in the selection of their candidates.
