The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, Nigeria, successfully conducted its ward congresses on Saturday, defying a heavy downpour that threatened to disrupt the electoral process. Across the 192 wards of the state, party members turned out in significant numbers to elect new executives and delegates, setting the stage for future party activities and positioning themselves for the 2027 gubernatorial elections. The exercise, observed by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), unfolded peacefully, particularly in Benin City’s Oredo Wards I, II, and III, where enthusiastic participation underscored the party’s grassroots mobilization efforts and growing support base.
Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, the state caretaker chairman of the PDP, who monitored the congresses alongside members of the ward congress electoral committee from the national headquarters in Abuja, expressed immense satisfaction with the turnout. He noted that the enthusiastic participation, even in the face of inclement weather, reflected the party’s resilience and its members’ unwavering commitment. Aziegbemi admitted to initial apprehension regarding the potential impact of the heavy rain on voter turnout. However, he was pleasantly surprised by the unwavering commitment of PDP members who braved the downpour to exercise their franchise. This impressive turnout, in his view, signifies a resurgence of the PDP in Edo State and augurs well for the party’s prospects in future elections.
The peaceful conduct of the ward congresses, coupled with the significant voter turnout, served as a powerful testament to the unity and renewed vigor within the PDP. Aziegbemi emphasized the vibrant and active participation of party members in electing the 17-member executive in various wards. He highlighted the early arrival of voters at polling stations, as early as 7:30 a.m., despite the heavy rain, as further evidence of the party’s growing strength and members’ dedication. The successful conduct of the congresses has instilled confidence in the party’s leadership, with Aziegbemi expressing optimism about the PDP’s chances of reclaiming power in Edo State in the 2027 elections. He attributed this optimism to what he described as the “abysmal failure” of both the federal and state governments, suggesting that public dissatisfaction with the incumbent administration would create a favorable political climate for the PDP.
Mr. Tariga Tulagha, Chairman of the PDP Ward Congress Electoral Committee, echoed Aziegbemi’s sentiments, praising the peaceful conduct of the elections and the unity exhibited by party members. He confirmed that the congresses proceeded smoothly, with full compliance with legal provisions. The impressive turnout, despite the adverse weather conditions, underscored the commitment of party members and the importance they attached to the exercise. Tulagha’s observations further validate the narrative of a revitalized PDP in Edo State, characterized by unity of purpose and a shared commitment to reclaim political power. He dismissed speculations of internal crisis within the party, attributing such rumors to external forces seeking to undermine the PDP’s progress.
The unanimous voice votes in support of the elected officials during the congresses served as tangible proof of the party’s unity and cohesion. The absence of dissenting voices, as highlighted by Tulagha, debunked claims of factionalism within the party ranks. The overwhelming “aye” votes, coupled with the absence of any “nay” votes, solidified the image of a unified party moving forward with a common purpose. This display of unity stands in stark contrast to the narrative of internal division that some had attempted to project, reinforcing the message of a cohesive and determined PDP.
The successful and peaceful conduct of the PDP ward congresses in Edo State, despite the heavy downpour, signifies a positive trajectory for the party. The high voter turnout, coupled with the demonstrated unity among party members, indicates a growing momentum within the PDP as it prepares for future elections. The party’s leadership views the congresses as a significant step towards reclaiming power in Edo State, citing perceived failures of the incumbent administration at both the federal and state levels as a catalyst for their anticipated success. The emphasis on unity and adherence to legal provisions throughout the process further strengthens the party’s image and its prospects for success in the upcoming political landscape. The congresses have effectively laid the groundwork for a revitalized and unified PDP in Edo State, poised to challenge the ruling party in the 2027 gubernatorial elections.
