Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-22 04:14:56
Today, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State is holding its governorship primary election, a contest that may have far-reaching consequences for the party. Aspirants and factions are fiercely competing for the ticket, and the outcome of this election has the potential to either strengthen or fracture the party. The primary election was scheduled to align with the timetable set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which stipulates the conclusion of party primaries in the state by February 24th. Although the method of electing the candidate remains unclear, political activities have intensified as aspirants have been engaging in consultations across the 18 local government councils.
Ten aspirants, including Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu, Asue Ighodalo, Osaro Onaiwu, Anselm Ojezua, Felix Akhabue, Martin Uhomoibhi, Omosede Igbinedion, Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, Arthur Esene, and Umoru Hadizat, are vying for the governorship ticket, representing the three senatorial districts of the state.
Tensions have been mounting within the Edo State PDP as the jostle for the governorship ticket has widened the gulf between factions. The recent ad-hoc ward delegate congress, local government delegates’ congress, and the national delegates election have exacerbated the divisions within the party. While Governor Godwin Obaseki has endorsed these elections, a faction known as the Legacy Coalition, consisting of traditional party members, has strongly opposed the process and its outcomes.
The Legacy Coalition is led by a former Edo State PDP chairman and incumbent National Vice Chairman (South-South) of the party, Chief Dan Orbih. This group has expressed dissatisfaction with the influence wielded by the governor’s faction, arguing that a single individual should not have unilateral control over the fate of party members and the selection of a gubernatorial candidate. The leadership schism has created disarray within the party, accentuated by the recent ad-hoc delegates’ election, further deepening the disunity and mistrust among party members.
Nine of the ten aspirants, excluding Asue Ighodalo, had lodged a complaint with Governor Seyi Makinde and the National Working Committee (NWC), alleging that the election process was tainted by interference from Edo and Delta State government officials. Despite efforts by the state chairman of the PDP, Dr Tony Aziegbemi, to promote unity and assure all aspirants of a level playing field, the Legacy Coalition has remained steadfast in its opposition, raising concerns about the process and its credibility.
Chief Dan Orbih and the Legacy Coalition have condemned the ad-hoc ward delegate election, asserting that it was orchestrated to favor Governor Obaseki’s faction. They have vowed to resist any attempt by the governor to impose his preferred candidate on the party. In response, the Assistant State Publicity Secretary of the party, Dr Bolaji Ojebuoboh, has dismissed the coalition’s claims, emphasizing that the election was fair and transparent.
The disaffection and unhealthy political rivalry within the Edo State PDP could pose significant challenges for the party as it prepares for the upcoming gubernatorial election. Without swift intervention, the impasse may weaken the party’s unity and competitive edge, potentially undermining its prospects in the forthcoming election.
Ultimately, the outcome of today’s primary election will have a substantial impact on the future of the PDP in Edo State. The stakes are high, and the party’s ability to navigate through these internal divisions will be crucial as it strives to present a unified front and garner widespread support ahead of the governorship election.
Read Original article on The Guardian
