Edo PDP Vows to Challenge APC in 2027, Hails Successful Ward Congresses

The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed confidence that it will mount a strong challenge against the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections, citing growing unity and renewed strength within its ranks.

The State Caretaker Committee Chairman of the PDP, Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, gave the assurance on Saturday in Benin City while monitoring the party’s ward congresses across the 192 wards in the state.

Aziegbemi, who commended the large turnout of members despite heavy rainfall, described the exercise as a demonstration of resilience and renewed faith in the party.

He maintained that the PDP was regaining ground in Edo, insisting that the failings of the APC-led governments at both federal and state levels had created the opportunity for the opposition party to reclaim the state.

“From what we saw today, we are very excited and cannot thank our members enough for their enthusiasm,” Aziegbemi said.

“The party faithful defied the heavy downpour to participate in the ward congresses to elect new executives and delegates across all 192 wards.

I was pleasantly surprised at the commitment of our members. By 7:30 a.m., people were already at the venues, ready to cast their votes.”

He added that the congresses were conducted peacefully, with members electing 17-member executives in the wards visited by his monitoring team.

“The PDP is rising again in Edo, and we believe we will give the APC a run for its money in 2027,” he declared.

Aziegbemi admitted he was initially unsure of the turnout but said the enthusiasm of members, even under difficult weather conditions, was a clear sign of the party’s resurgence.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the PDP Ward Congress Electoral Committee, Tariga Tulagha, applauded the conduct of members, noting that the polls were peaceful and devoid of rancour.

He dismissed claims of internal divisions within the Edo PDP, stressing that the outcome of the congress reflected unity and shared purpose.

“We went out to conduct elections for officers and delegates across all wards. So far, the exercise has been peaceful, with full compliance with the law,” Tulagha said.

“Despite the rain, people came out in large numbers, and we were impressed. If there had been factions, it would have shown during the process, but what we observed was unity of purpose.”

Meanwhile, Newsmen, who monitored proceedings at Oredo Wards I, II, and III in Benin City, reported that the exercise was peaceful, with enthusiastic party members actively participating in the voting process.

The PDP ward congresses mark a significant step in repositioning the party ahead of the 2027 polls, as stakeholders continue to push for internal cohesion and grassroots mobilisation.