Edo 2024: PDP Takes Measures to Calm Gubernatorial Aspirants

In the wake of the heated dispute over the election of Dr. Asue Ighodalo as the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) candidate for the upcoming September Edo State governorship election, the party has initiated efforts to address the grievances of discontented aspirants.

Dr. Ighodalo faced competition from nine other aspirants, including the incumbent Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, who alleges a breach of party rules during the primary process.

Maintaining his claim as the rightful candidate, Shaibu organized a parallel primary and, asserting his victory, visited the party headquarters in Abuja demanding the presentation of the certificate of return, despite the National Working Committee (NEC) having already awarded it to Ighodalo.

In response to the escalating tensions, the PDP has formed a reconciliation committee tasked with addressing the concerns of the aggrieved members before the commencement of the campaign.

Chaired by Bala Mohammed, the head of the PDP Governors Forum, the committee comprises nine other notable party members, including Ahmed Makarfi, Seriake Dickson, Senator Tunde Ogheha, Senator Stella Omu, Senator Olalere Oyewunmi, Prof. Sandy Onor, Alh. Isiaka Sola Gold, and Emmanuel Enoidem, SAN as Secretary, with Barr. Jacob Otorkpa as the Administrative Secretary.

National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, affirmed that the committee’s establishment aligns with the party’s Constitution and guidelines. 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 party members in Edo State to remain steadfast and continue working diligently for the success of the party and its Governorship Candidate, Dr. Asuerinme Ighodalo, in the upcoming election.