PDP considers withdrawal from Edo Guber race as Asue Ighodalo expresses reservations – TrendyNewsReporters

PDP considers withdrawal from Edo Guber race as Asue Ighodalo expresses reservations

Precious Adaeze Julius

In a dramatic turn of events that could alter the political landscape of Edo State, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is mulling a potential withdrawal from the governorship race. The turmoil comes in the wake of significant reservations expressed by the party’s candidate, Asue Ighodalo, over the recent Peace Accord.

The Peace Accord, an initiative of the National Peace Accord Committee (NPAC) under the esteemed leadership of General Abdusalami Abubakar RTD, was signed by all political parties except the PDP. The accord aims to ensure a peaceful and orderly electoral process, but the PDP’s decision to abstain has sparked controversy.

Asue Ighodalo, who was drawn into the race mainly at the request of Governor Godwin Obaseki, expressed concern that failure to support the peace agreement could jeopardize his chances in the upcoming elections.

Internal discord within the PDP has intensified, with Governor Obaseki reportedly issuing a strong warning to Ighodalo. The governor has hinted that a persistence in questioning the party’s position on the peace agreement could lead to Ighodalo being removed from the race entirely, with the PDP potentially withdrawing its support altogether. This development underscores the deepening divide between Ighodalo and Obaseki, who wields considerable influence over the party’s decisions.

Adding to the tension is the broader context of election preparations. Obaseki has expressed frustration with the robust security measures implemented, including the deployment of 35,000 police officers. This development has sparked controversy, particularly in light of allegations that Obaseki has recruited over 11,000 new members into the state surveillance network. Critics argue that these recruits are intended to manipulate the electoral process, deepening Obaseki’s discontent with the current security arrangements.

For Ighodalo, the stakes are high. Having invested a significant amount of personal wealth in his campaign, he faces the prospect of severe financial repercussions if he loses. The financial burden, coupled with mounting debts, poses a significant risk to his future. In addition, Ighodalo is dealing with the fallout from Obaseki’s public disputes with the Benin Palace and traditional rulers, which have further complicated his campaign.

A substantial portion of Obaseki’s ₦17 billion monthly income from FAAC and IGR is rumoured to be earmarked to fund Asue Ighodalo’s campaign. This financial support highlights the high stakes for both parties, as Obaseki’s investment reflects his aim to secure a successor who can continue his political battles and safeguard his personal interests.

As the PDP navigates these internal conflicts and external pressures, the outcome will be critical to the party’s future in the Edo governorship race. The resolution of these issues will play a crucial role in shaping the electoral strategy and potentially determining the trajectory of the campaign.