Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Agency Report
Published on 2024-02-23 14:55:13
Monday Okpebholo, representing Edo Central at the National Assembly, has emerged as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 21 September governorship election in Edo State. The victory was declared by Gov Bassey Otu of Cross River, who served as the chairperson of the APC supplementary primary election, in Benin. Mr. Okpebholo garnered 12,433 votes to defeat 11 other aspirants in the contest.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that Governor Hope Uzodinma declared Dennis Idahosa, a member representing Ovia Federal Constituency, as the winner of the primaries on 17 February. However, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the ruling party overturned this victory and declared the election inconclusive. The committee ordered a supplementary primary to be conducted on Thursday and replaced Mr. Uzodinma with Mr. Otu as the chairman.
In the re-run, Mr. Idahosa, backed by a former governor of the state, Adams Oshimhole, who led in the first ballot with 4,483 votes, ended up with 6,541 votes. Despite Governor Uzodinma’s initial declaration, the NWC’s decision to conduct a supplementary primary reflected the party’s commitment to fair and transparent electoral processes.
The outcome of the primary election signifies the democratic process within the APC in Edo State. It showcases the competitive nature of the party’s internal mechanisms and its commitment to ensuring that the most suitable candidate emerges to represent them in the governorship elections. This rigorous selection process highlights the importance of intra-party democracy and the emphasis on choosing the candidate with the highest support among party members.
The eventual emergence of Monday Okpebholo as the APC candidate for the governorship election is a testament to his credibility and acceptance within the party. His victory not only reflects his popularity among party members but also suggests that he possesses the qualities and competence required to lead Edo State effectively. As the candidate chosen by the party, Mr. Okpebholo will now focus on campaigning and articulating his vision for the state to the electorate ahead of the September election.
The APC’s internal dynamics and the conduct of the primary election demonstrate the party’s adherence to democratic principles and the rule of law. Despite the initial declaration of a different winner, the party’s leadership prioritized fairness and transparency by conducting a supplementary primary to ensure that the candidate with the strongest support emerged as the flagbearer for the governorship election.
In conclusion, Monday Okpebholo’s emergence as the APC candidate for the Edo State governorship election underscores the party’s commitment to democratic processes and good governance. His victory in the primary election reflects the will of the party members and sets the stage for a competitive and engaging campaign leading up to the September election. As the chosen candidate, Mr. Okpebholo will now focus on engaging with the electorate, outlining his policies and plans for the state, and rallying support for his candidacy in the upcoming election.
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