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Published on 2024-02-19 08:17:27
There is currently drama in Edo state politics, as both the ruling PDP and APC are experiencing internal crises. The turmoil in the ruling PDP stems from the rivalry between the incumbent Governor Obaseki and his deputy over who will become the next governor. In addition to this, the APC is also grappling with an internal crisis surrounding who will carry the party flag in the forthcoming state election.
One of the latest developments in the state is the resignation of former Edo state commissioner for communication and orientation, Andrew Emwanta, from the All Progressives Congress (APC). Emwanta’s resignation comes in the wake of the gubernatorial election primaries, which produced three different winners. The flawed conduct of the primaries led to Emwanta’s decision to sever ties with the APC. In a letter addressed to the ward chairman, ward 7, Egor local government area, Emwanta stated his formal resignation from the APC, effective from February 18, 2024. Emwanta attributed his decision to resign to the lack of internal democracy within the APC, stemming from the flawed process of the Edo governorship primaries. This left him with no confidence in the party’s leadership structure and sense of political ethos.
Emwanta’s decision to leave the APC is indicative of the growing unrest and instability within the party. The flawed conduct of the primaries further highlights the internal crisis that has been brewing within the APC. This development adds to the mounting challenges faced by the party as it prepares for the forthcoming state election.
The gubernatorial election primaries, which took place on February 17, saw three different winners being announced. Governor Hope Uzodimma, who chaired the electoral committee, declared Dennis Idahosa as the winner, while the primary’s returning officer, Dr. Stanley Ugboajah, announced Senator Monday Okpebholo as the APC’s chosen candidate. Additionally, Ojo Babatunde, representing the returning officers in all the local government, declared Anamero Dekeri as the winner of the election. Emwanta’s resignation, in light of these conflicting results, underscores the disarray within the party and raises questions about the credibility of the primary election process.
Emwanta’s departure from the APC is not the only notable development in Edo state politics. Earlier, Ernest Umakhihe, a former permanent secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, withdrew from the race on the platform of the APC. His decision to step down was aimed at fostering peace and unity within the party. Following his withdrawal, Umakhihe declared his support for Dennis Idahosa, a youthful representative of Ovia constituency in the House of Representatives, whom he described as “the choice of the party.”
These developments indicate a growing challenge for the APC as it navigates the internal turmoil and strives to present a united front ahead of the forthcoming state election. The party’s ability to address internal disputes, restore confidence in its leadership, and conduct credible and transparent primary elections will be crucial in facing the opposition and positioning itself for success in Edo state politics.
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