Crisis in Edo State PDP as Party Chieftains Clash over Governorship Candidate Endorsement

The crisis within the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has deepened as two prominent party members engage in a bitter dispute over the endorsement of Asue Ighodalo as the party’s candidate for the upcoming governorship primary election scheduled for February 22, 2024.

Endorsement Amidst Controversy
The controversy began when Owere Dickson Imasogie, representing the Edo South Senatorial District, publicly endorsed Asue Ighodalo as the PDP’s candidate during the aspirant’s official declaration of interest in Benin City.

Imasogie declared his support, stating, “I have endorsed him (Asue Ighodalo) as the PDP candidate for the September 21, 2024, governorship election. And I will take the message back to my people.”

Counter-Endorsement Raises Tensions
However, the endorsement was quickly met with opposition from Orobosa Omo-Ojo, another influential figure in the party from the same senatorial district. Omo-Ojo, a former two-time commissioner in Adams Oshiomhole’s administration, dismissed Imasogie’s endorsement as “null and void.”

In a statement to the press in Benin City, Omo-Ojo emphasized that Imasogie’s actions did not represent the collective interests of the Edo South Senatorial District.

Leadership Dispute

Omo-Ojo clarified that Owere Dickson Imasogie, while entitled to his personal endorsements, lacked the authority to speak on behalf of the leaders of Edo South.

He stressed that the official chairman of the Edo South Senatorial District PDP is Nosa Ogieva-Okunbor, who possesses the mandate to represent the district’s interests. Omo-Ojo warned that Imasogie’s statements could potentially divide the party at a critical time when unity is paramount.

Call for Caution

In light of the escalating tensions, Omo-Ojo urged the public to exercise caution in interpreting Imasogie’s actions, emphasizing the need for unity and healing within the party.

He emphasized that the PDP must avoid internal divisions as it prepares for the upcoming governorship primary election.

The clash between these prominent figures within the Edo State PDP reflects the intense political maneuvering ahead of the crucial governorship election, underscoring the challenges the party faces in maintaining cohesion and unity.