APC, PDP, LP Face Uphill Battle as Fallout from Edo Governorship Primaries Unfolds

Edo State’s political environment faces heightened challenges as the All Progressives Congress (APC), the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and the Labour Party (LP) grapple with the aftermath of tumultuous primaries leading up to the September 21 governorship election.

Despite the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) set timetable, the primaries’ turbulent conclusion has posed daunting tasks for the major political players. Internal crises within each party have escalated, resulting in parallel primaries and the emergence of multiple candidates.

INEC had previously cautioned parties against illegalities, emphasizing the importance of adhering to schedules and guidelines. However, the warnings appear to have been overlooked, with the fallout from the primaries generating concerns about pre-election litigation and potential disruptions.

The APC, aiming to reclaim Edo State, witnessed a contentious fresh primary on Thursday. Senator Monday Okpebholo emerged as the candidate, triggering tension among other aspirants, including Dennis Idabosa, perceived as the preferred choice of former governor Adams Oshiomhole. The unresolved fallout could impact the APC’s unity in the upcoming election.

Similarly, the PDP faced its share of drama, with Governor Godwin Obaseki and deputy governor Philip Shaibu at odds with other aspirants. Parallel primaries held on February 22 resulted in conflicting declarations of winners, adding to the party’s internal strife. Despite the discord, the PDP officially recognizes Asue Ighodalo as its sole candidate for the election.

The LP’s candidate selection process mirrored the chaos of the other major parties, with conflicting interests among party leaders and aspirants. The emergence of Olumide Akapta as the LP candidate followed disputes over primary venues and conflicting endorsements.

The overall situation in Edo State’s political landscape has drawn criticism from analysts, who view it as a stain on the nation’s democracy. Political experts express concern about the lack of internal democracy and the potential impact on the credibility of the upcoming general election.