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The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has plunged deeper into chaos as Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu emerged victorious in a factional primary election.
This parallel vote, held amid accusations of irregularities, further deepens the divide between Shaibu and Governor Godwin Obaseki's factions.
Shaibu, backed by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP, secured over 301 votes in his faction's primary.
However, the legitimacy of this election remains contested by Obaseki's camp, which has accused the NWC of bias and vowed to hold its own separate primary.
The dispute stems from a long-running power struggle within the Edo PDP. Obaseki, who defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2020, faces opposition from a faction loyal to his former party.
This internal rift has now manifested in separate primaries, raising questions about the party's unity and ability to challenge for the governorship in September 2024.
Obaseki's faction, supported by the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC), argues that the NWC-backed primary is illegal and violates the party's constitution. They maintain that only EDSIEC has the authority to conduct primaries in the state.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has yet to take a position on the controversy, further complicating the situation.
With two conflicting primaries and a divided party, the Edo PDP faces the daunting task of uniting itself before the crucial governorship election.
While Shaibu celebrates his victory in the factional primary, the bigger question remains: can the PDP overcome its internal divisions and present a united front against the ruling APC in September?
The answer to this question will have significant implications for the upcoming election and the future of the PDP in Edo State.
