Ten aspirants will be battling for the governorship ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party in Edo State today, February 22.
The primary, set to take place at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin, will see 576 delegates determining the fate of the contenders.
The aspirants include the Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shuaibu; a former Chairman of Sterling Bank, Asue Ighodalo, Blessing Igbinedion, Anselm Usiose Ojezua, Felix Akhabue, Martin Uhomoibhi, Umoru Hadizat, Osaro Osaze Onaiwu, Arthur Esene and Omoregie Ihama.
The electoral committee, led by Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal and co-chaired by Governor Sheriff Oborevwhori of Delta, is overseeing the process. The party’s State Organising Secretary, Tony Anenih Jr, released a statement outlining the exercise’s procedural details.
The race has been narrowed to a two-horse competition between Dr. Asue Ighodalo, a candidate backed by Governor Godwin Obaseki, and Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama. Despite speculation of a parallel congress, eight aspirants, including Anselem Ojezua, expressed commitment to participating.
Ojezua, a prominent aspirant, acknowledged flaws in the process but emphasized their dedication to completing the exercise. Meanwhile, Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu’s participation remains uncertain.
Shaibu, citing his experience, asserted his candidacy, stated, “I am confident, with your support, we can take Edo state to even greater heights.” He highlighted his achievements and pledged a campaign built on five pillars crucial to the state’s development.
Dr. Asue Ighodalo, backed by Governor Obaseki, is seen as a frontrunner due to widespread support from adhoc and national delegates. The political landscape anticipates his emergence as the PDP gubernatorial candidate.
Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, a popular figure among the masses, emphasized his vision for Edo State, including youth empowerment and improved healthcare. Other aspirants, including Felix Akhabue, Arthur Esene, Martin Uhumoibi, and Omosede Igbinedion, each outlined their unique agendas and aspirations for the state.
As the tension builds, all eyes are on the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, where the PDP delegates will determine the party’s flagbearer in the upcoming 2024 elections.