Paragraph 1: Context of the Edo State PDP Primaries
The political landscape of Edo State is gearing up for significant changes as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) prepares for its upcoming primaries scheduled for July 21, 2025. These primaries are crucial as they will determine the party’s flagbearers for the National Assembly bye-elections slated for August 16, 2025. The bye-elections will fill the vacant positions for the Edo Central Senatorial District and the Ovia Federal Constituency, both vital seats in the National Assembly. The primaries hold substantial weight, shaping the political representation of these constituencies in the federal legislature. The outcome will significantly impact the political dynamics within the state and influence the overall direction of governance in the affected areas.
Paragraph 2: Cleared Aspirants and the Screening Process
The Edo State chapter of the PDP has meticulously conducted its screening process, resulting in the clearance of several aspirants for the upcoming primaries. For the Edo Central Senatorial ticket, three prominent figures have emerged: John Yakubu, Friday Itulah, and Joe Okojie. Their clearance indicates they have met the party’s criteria and are eligible to contest for the senatorial seat. In the Ovia Federal Constituency race, Johnny Aikpitanyi has emerged as the sole cleared aspirant, effectively securing his position as the PDP’s unopposed candidate for the constituency. The screening process, a crucial step in the party’s internal democratic procedure, ensures that candidates meet specific requirements and are deemed fit to represent the party in the upcoming elections.
Paragraph 3: The Case of Festus Edogun
One aspirant, Festus Edogun, who also sought the PDP’s ticket for the Edo Central Senatorial District, was not cleared by the party. The circumstances surrounding Edogun’s non-clearance involve his purchase of the nomination form from the PDP headquarters in Abuja. He was requested to provide proof of this purchase to the appeal committee. This requirement suggests a procedural step that Edogun may not have fulfilled, leading to his exclusion from the list of cleared aspirants. The details of this situation underscore the party’s emphasis on adhering to internal processes and regulations.
Paragraph 4: The Screening Committee and its Composition
The screening of aspirants was conducted with due diligence by a five-member panel appointed by the PDP National Working Committee. This panel, chaired by Prof. Okumoko Tubo Pearce and with Chinomso Odoemelan as secretary, included other members like Inemo Dede, Evelyn Promise, and David Omare. The committee’s composition reflects a diverse representation and expertise, ensuring a thorough and impartial evaluation of the aspirants. This rigorous screening process aims to select the most suitable candidates to represent the party in the upcoming elections.
Paragraph 5: Presentation of Clearance Certificates and Aspirant’s Remarks
Following the screening process, the committee presented certificates of clearance to the successful aspirants on Friday, July 18, 2025, at the Edo PDP Secretariat. This formal ceremony marked the official recognition of their eligibility to contest in the primaries. Johnny Aikpitanyi, speaking on behalf of the cleared aspirants, expressed his gratitude to the committee for their professionalism, diligence, and fairness throughout the screening process. His comments highlight the smooth and transparent nature of the proceedings, instilling confidence in the party’s internal democratic mechanisms.
Paragraph 6: Aikpitanyi’s Vision for Ovia Federal Constituency
Aikpitanyi, now the PDP’s sole candidate for the Ovia Federal Constituency, articulated his vision for the constituency, emphasizing grassroots development and quality representation. He expressed confidence in his ability to win the election, highlighting his commitment to serving the people of Ovia and bringing about positive change. His focus on grassroots development suggests a bottom-up approach to governance, prioritizing the needs of the local communities. His pledge to deliver quality representation underscores his dedication to effectively advocating for the interests of his constituents in the National Assembly. Aikpitanyi’s vision resonates with the aspirations of the people of Ovia, promising a renewed focus on their welfare and progress.
