Edo PDP Governorship Aspirant Withdraws Alleging Irregularities

Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, a prominent aspirant in the ongoing Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship primary in Edo State, has officially withdrawn from the race. This decision, communicated through a letter dated February 12, 2024, addressed to the party’s National Secretary, Sam Anyanwu, and copied to the National Working Committee, cited irregularities as the primary reason for the withdrawal.

Ogbeide-Ihama’s letter, made available to journalists on Thursday, highlighted the disappointment stemming from the ward congress organized by the party in the state. The aspirant, along with eight others, expressed dissatisfaction with the transparency of the process and questioned the fairness of the committee overseeing the congress. Allegations were raised that the process had been manipulated to favor a specific aspirant unfairly.

In the letter, Ogbeide-Ihama expressed frustration with the National Working Committee’s response, stating that despite approaching appeal panels with evidence of guideline violations, recommendations from both panels were disregarded. This disregard for addressing concerns eroded confidence in the integrity and credibility of the entire selection process, leading to his decision to withdraw.

The aspirant, known for his commitment to party values, consulted with family, key stakeholders, and supporters before making the “hard, honourable, and logical decision” to withdraw from the candidate selection process for the 2024 Edo governorship elections.

Ogbeide-Ihama concluded the letter by leaving the possibility of communicating subsequent actions open “if and when necessary.”

Meanwhile, security has been significantly heightened at the venue of the PDP governorship primary election, the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin. The Edo State Traffic Management Authority closely scrutinized vehicles attempting to access the stadium road, with policemen stationed along the route and at the entrance, ensuring only individuals with legitimate business were permitted entry.