PDP Conducts Delegates Election Ahead of Edo Gubernatorial Polls

In the run-up to the eagerly anticipated February 22, 2024, PDP governorship primaries in Edo State, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has successfully elected 576 delegates, a process met with both anticipation and opposition.

Despite objections raised by nine aspirants and protests within certain quarters, the PDP carried out the delegates’ election in Edo State on Sunday. The elected delegates are poised to play a crucial role in nominating the party’s candidate for the upcoming Edo gubernatorial election.

Prior to the election, there was a notable development as the Chairman of the 3-Mans Committee, led by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, stepped down. Governor Makinde’s departure saw the entrance of Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State as the new committee head.

Speaking to the press at George Idahosa Primary School in Benin City, Edo State Capital, Governor Mbah commended the substantial turnout of PDP members, hailing the exercise as free, fair, credible, and transparent.

Governor Mbah emphasized the democratic principles of fairness, equity, and justice, urging party members to conduct themselves appropriately during the election process.

Meanwhile, in various wards across the state, notable figures led the delegate election process. Dr. Major Itemowe spearheaded the exercise in Ward 7 at Ugbekun Primary School, while Hon. Kunle Koya from Lagos State oversaw the process in Oluku Ward.

Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki addressed the issue of party crisis, stating that it was overemphasized and would not impact the outcome of the governorship election. Governor Obaseki expressed satisfaction with the significant turnout, highlighting the political awareness of the people.

However, the harmony was not universal, as nine aspirants raised objections in letters to the Acting National Chairman and National Vice Chairman South-South. The aspirants, including Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu and Hon. Omosede Igbinedion, protested against the process and the composition of those tasked with conducting the delegates’ election.