Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Leon Usigbe
Published on 2024-03-01 19:57:37
Following the controversy surrounding the emergence of Dr. Asue Ighodalo as the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) candidate for the September Edo State governorship election, the party has taken steps to appease aspirants who feel aggrieved by the process. Ighodalo competed against nine other aspirants, including the incumbent Deputy Governor of the state, Philip Shaibu, who maintains that the party failed to adhere to its own rules during the primary. Shaibu, declaring himself the candidate after organizing a parallel primary, insists he was the duly elected party flag bearer and even stormed the party headquarters in Abuja during the week to demand the presentation of the certificate of return. The National Working Committee (NEC) had presented the certificate to Ighodalo 24 hours earlier, prompting the deputy governor to threaten legal action.
In response to the grievances raised by the aggrieved members, the PDP has now established a reconciliation committee to address the concerns before the campaign’s commencement. The committee, led by the chairman of the PDP Governors Forum, Bala Mohammed, comprises nine other prominent party members, including former Kaduna governor, Ahmed Makarfi; former Bayelsa State governor, Seriake Dickson; Senator Tunde Ogheha, Senator Stella Omu, Senator Olalere Oyewunmi, Prof. Sandy Onor, Alh. Isiaka Sola Gold, and Emmanuel Enoidem, SAN as Secretary, while Barr. Jacob Otorkpa is appointed as Administrative Secretary.
Debo Ologunagba, National Publicity Secretary, stated that the committee was established in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution and guidelines of the party. Ologunagba emphasized, “The Committee is charged with the responsibility of reconciling all critical stakeholders and all our party members in Edo State ahead of the September 21, 2024, Governorship Election in the State.” He urged all critical stakeholders and members of the party in Edo State to remain steadfast and continue working hard for the success of the party and Governorship Candidate, Dr. Asuerinme Ighodalo, in the September 21, 2024, Governorship Election in Edo State.
The establishment of the reconciliation committee signals the party’s commitment to addressing internal disputes and ensuring unity among its members ahead of the crucial election. By including prominent party members with diverse backgrounds and experiences, the committee aims to provide a platform for open dialogue and resolution of issues that have arisen during the primary process. This approach demonstrates the party’s dedication to upholding democratic values and promoting inclusivity within its ranks.
The upcoming Governorship Election in Edo State is a pivotal moment for the PDP, and the successful resolution of internal disputes will be crucial in securing victory at the polls. The party’s efforts to reconcile all critical stakeholders and members in the state highlight its determination to present a united front and focus on the task ahead. With the leadership of the reconciliation committee and the support of party members, the PDP aims to strengthen its position and rally behind Dr. Asuerinme Ighodalo as the candidate for the governorship election.
As the reconciliation process unfolds, it is essential for all stakeholders and party members in Edo State to engage constructively and work towards a common goal of success in the September 21, 2024, Governorship Election. The PDP’s commitment to fairness, transparency, and unity will be essential in navigating the challenges ahead and presenting a formidable campaign for Dr. Asuerinme Ighodalo. By coming together and forging a path forward, the party can overcome internal divisions and focus on the ultimate objective of securing victory in the upcoming election.
Read the original article on Nigerian Tribune
