The deputy governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, has secured victory in the alternative People’s Democratic Party (PDP) primaries held in Edo State. Shaibu emerged as the winner with a significant margin, garnering over three hundred and one votes.
Meanwhile, the faction led by Governor Godwin Obaseki within the party has yet to initiate its own primary election.
Previously, it was reported by Vanguard that 10 candidates were set to compete for the governorship nomination of the ruling PDP in Edo State on the scheduled day. These candidates included Hon. Omosede Igbinedion, Anselem Ojezua, Felix Akhabue, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, Philip Shaibu, Arthur Esene, Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, Amb. Martin Uhumoibi, Osaro Onaiwu, and Umoru Hadizat.
A total of 576 delegates were expected to participate in deciding the fate of these 10 aspirants at the primary election held at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin. The electoral committee overseeing the process was chaired by Dauda Lawal from Zamfara State, with Governor Sheriff Oborevwhori of Delta serving as co-chairman, along with other members such as Senator James Manager, Senator Bayero Nafada, Mrs. Nella Rabana, SAN, Hadiza Mustapha, and Chief Felix Hyatt.
The party’s State Organising Secretary, Tony Anenih Jr., outlined the procedures for the exercise in a statement, detailing the accreditation of delegates and other participants, including media personnel, as well as how the process would be conducted.
After extensive consultations and amidst intense political maneuvering, several aspirants expressed optimism about their chances of securing the nomination. The competition was primarily seen as a battle between Ighodalo and Ogbeide-Ihama.
In all likelihood, Dr. Ighodalo, supported by Governor Godwin Obaseki, was expected to emerge as the PDP’s gubernatorial candidate.
Reports suggested that some protesting aspirants might be present at the venue of the election, despite earlier speculations of a potential parallel congress.
Ighodalo’s potential emergence was attributed to the fact that the majority of the ad hoc and national delegates participating in the process were elected through delegate elections in which other aspirants did not partake.
While some aspirants deliberated on attending the congress, Ighodalo reportedly visited Hon. Omosede Igbinedion, affirming her commitment to abide by the outcome of the delegates’ congress as a loyal party member.
