- PDP’s NWC initiates reconciliation with disgruntled aspirants including Philip Shaibu after Edo State governorship primary tensions
- Despite party’s assertion of no parallel primaries, tensions persist; Shaibu warns of election loss if not accepted as flagbearer
The Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) National Working Committee (NWC) has embarked on a process to reconcile with disgruntled aspirants, including Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu, following last week’s primary for the Edo State governorship election slated for September 21, 2024.
Despite assertions from the party that there were no parallel primary elections, insisting that Asue Ighodalo emerged as the legitimate candidate from Thursday’s primary, tensions remain high.
Philip Shaibu won a parallel primary held at the deputy governor’s lodge, securing 300 votes. Shaibu subsequently warned that the party risked losing the governorship election if he was not accepted as the flagbearer.
Additionally, eight other aspirants, namely Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, Anselm Ojezua, Felix Akhabue, Martin Uhomoibhi, Hafia Hadizat Umoru, Omosede Igbinedion, Earl Osaro Onaiwu, and Arthur Esene, had lodged complaints with the NWC before the primary, questioning the legitimacy of the congress that selected delegates for the election.
To address the growing dissent, Debo Ologunagba, the PDP’s national publicity secretary, emphasized Shaibu’s commitment to the party’s interests and expressed hope for his cooperation in ensuring party unity for the forthcoming election.
Regarding Shaibu’s declaration, Ologunagba acknowledged the expressive nature of elections but stressed the importance of following due process, assuring that internal mechanisms would be activated to address grievances.
In a subsequent statement, Ologunagba confirmed the NWC’s readiness to issue the certificate of return to Ighodalo following the successful conclusion of the election and its ratification by the appeal panel.
The PDP remains focused on fostering unity within its ranks as it prepares for the upcoming governorship election in Edo State, underscoring the importance of collaboration and inclusivity in achieving its political objectives.