The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State successfully conducted its ward congresses on Saturday, despite a heavy downpour. The event saw the election of new executives and delegates across all 192 wards.

In Oredo Wards I, II, and III in Benin City, the exercise was characterized by enthusiasm and orderliness, with a large turnout of party members. Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, the State Caretaker Committee Chairman of the PDP, led a monitoring team alongside members of the Ward Congress Electoral Committee from the party’s national headquarters in Abuja.

Aziegbemi described the event as a demonstration of the PDP’s resilience and renewed strength in Edo. He noted that the ward congresses were peaceful, with members electing 17-member executives in the wards. Aziegbemi initially expressed uncertainty about the turnout but was pleasantly surprised by the dedication of party members, many of whom arrived at the polling grounds as early as 7:30 a.m. despite the rain.

The PDP chairman expressed confidence in the party’s prospects, citing the “abysmal failure of the government at both the federal and state levels” as a potential factor in the PDP’s favor in the 2027 elections. Mr. Tariga Tulagha, Chairman of the PDP Ward Congress Electoral Committee, commended members for their unity and peaceful conduct during the exercise.

Tulagha noted that the elections were conducted peacefully, with full compliance with the law, and that the turnout was impressive despite the rain. He dismissed speculations of an internal crisis within the PDP in Edo, stating that the voting pattern reflected harmony. The successful conduct of the ward congresses marks a significant step in the PDP’s preparations for future elections in Edo State.

The party’s ability to hold peaceful and orderly elections, despite adverse weather conditions, underscores its organizational strength and commitment to democratic processes. As the PDP looks to the 2027 elections, the outcomes of the ward congresses will be crucial in determining the party’s candidates and strategy. The elections are expected to be highly contested, with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) seeking to maintain its hold on power. The PDP’s success in the ward congresses has set the stage for a potentially intense and competitive electoral campaign in Edo State.