Edo Decides: Ighodalo Calls for Urgent Retreat As Campaign Organization Considers Distancing Itself from Obaseki Amid PDP Turmoil

By Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah

Benin City , Nigeria – The political landscape in Edo State is experiencing significant upheaval as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) navigates internal strife ahead of the September gubernatorial election.

In a dramatic weekend event in Esan Central Senatorial District, the All Progressives Congress (APC) welcomed thousands of former PDP members into its ranks. This mass defection was spearheaded by notable figures such as former gubernatorial aspirant Felix Akhabue (popularly known as JOFEL), former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Frank Abumere Okiye, and Hon. Godwin Ehigiamusoe.

In response to these defections, the PDP’s gubernatorial candidate Asue Ighodalo has called for an urgent retreat to re-strategize. Sources close to the campaign reveal that the candidate is contemplating distancing his organization from Governor Godwin Obaseki, attributing the defections to dissatisfaction with Obaseki’s administration. This move could signify a major shift in the campaign dynamics as the election approaches.

According to insiders, the gubernatorial candidate believes that aligning too closely with Obaseki is detrimental to their campaign. The Ighodalo campaign organization is reportedly frustrated with the daily defections and sees a need to reassess their strategy to gain traction.

If these new tactics are implemented, it could result in the Ighodalo campaign operating independently of the PDP’s central campaign council, which is accused of prioritizing financial gains over electoral victory.

This potential schism within the PDP could disrupt the party’s efforts and significantly alter the pre-election landscape. Governor Obaseki, allegedly displeased with the prospect of Ighodalo distancing himself, has cautioned the candidate to proceed carefully. Obaseki fears that such a move could exacerbate the situation, particularly if Ighodalo were to win and succeed him as governor.

While the full implications of this internal conflict are still unfolding, it is clear that the PDP is facing a pre-election crisis. The growing rift between Obaseki and his endorsed candidate, Ighodalo, could have far-reaching consequences for the party’s chances in the upcoming election.

This evolving story highlights the fragile state of political alliances within the PDP as the party struggles to maintain unity and momentum.

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Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah is the Principal and CEO of Bush Radio Academy.