The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) embarked on a critical step in its preparation for the upcoming by-elections for the Edo Central Senatorial District and Ovia Federal Constituency. These elections, scheduled for August 16, 2025, by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), became necessary following the ascension of the previous occupants of these seats, Governor Monday Okpebholo and Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, to their current executive positions after the September 21, 2024, governorship election. The party meticulously organized the screening process for aspirants vying for these vacant legislative positions, signaling its commitment to a transparent and democratic selection of its candidates. This process marked a crucial juncture for the PDP in its bid to reclaim its dominance in the political landscape of Edo State.
The screening exercise, held at the party’s secretariat in Benin City, was overseen by a five-member committee meticulously selected by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP. This committee, chaired by Professor Okumoko Tubo Pearce and with Arc Chinomso Odoemelan as Secretary, also included Inemo Dede, Evelyn Promise, and David Omare. The composition of the committee reflected the party’s commitment to ensuring a balanced and unbiased assessment of the aspirants. Four individuals, namely John Yakubu, Friday Itulah, Joseph Okojie, and Festus Edogun, presented themselves for screening for the Edo Central Senatorial District seat. Meanwhile, Johnny Aikpitanyi stood unopposed as the sole aspirant for the Ovia Federal Constituency seat, underscoring the party’s cohesive structure in certain areas.
Tony Aziegbemi, the Chairman of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, warmly welcomed the aspirants and the screening committee members to the party’s secretariat. In his address, he expressed unwavering confidence in the integrity and fairness of the screening process, emphasizing the party’s determination to achieve victory in the forthcoming by-elections. Aziegbemi also seized the opportunity to address a crucial internal matter, urging party members and the broader Edo populace to disregard the activities of certain individuals falsely claiming to be members of the PDP Caretaker Committee in Edo State. He unequivocally affirmed the authority of the national headquarters of the PDP in conducting congresses and primaries for candidate selection, solidifying the legitimacy of the ongoing screening process.
Aziegbemi’s pronouncements sought to dispel any lingering doubts about the authenticity of the Caretaker Committee and the party’s operations in Edo State. He underscored the presence of the screening committee dispatched from the PDP national headquarters in Abuja as irrefutable evidence of the legitimacy of the Edo State Caretaker Committee and the validity of the screening process. This clarification was crucial in reinforcing party unity and projecting a strong, unified front ahead of the by-elections. By emphasizing the party’s adherence to due process, Aziegbemi aimed to bolster public trust and reaffirm the PDP’s commitment to democratic principles.
Following their respective screenings, the aspirants expressed their satisfaction with the transparency and fairness of the process. Festus Edogun, exuding confidence, expressed his strong belief in his connection with the people of Edo Central and his prospects for securing the party’s ticket and ultimately winning the election. He portrayed himself as a unifying figure, deeply rooted within the community, and banking on the support of the electorate. John Yakubu echoed these sentiments, commending the Screening Committee’s impartiality and highlighting the historical significance of Edo Central as a PDP stronghold. He viewed the upcoming by-election as a prime opportunity for the party to reassert its dominance in the region.
Similarly, Joe Okojie expressed optimism about the party’s chances in the by-elections, praising the committee’s professionalism and diligence. Johnny Aikpitanyi, the sole aspirant for the Ovia Federal Constituency, described the screening process as seamless and expressed confidence in his ability to win the election, signifying a strong and unified front within the party for that particular constituency. The overall atmosphere surrounding the screening exercise was one of optimism and confidence, reflecting a revitalized PDP determined to regain its foothold in the political landscape of Edo State. The party’s focus on internal cohesion and transparent processes underscored its commitment to presenting a strong and unified front in the upcoming by-elections.
