KEY POINTS
- PDP appoints caretaker committee to manage Edo affairs.
- Governor Obaseki vows to fight for “stolen mandate.”
- Legal battle preparation underway, tribunal set for December.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has introduced a caretaker committee to manage its operations until a new executive is elected.
The National Working Committee selected Dr. Tony Aziegbemi as the chairperson and Hon Henry Duke Tenebe as secretary. This committee is provided for in section 29(2)(b) of the PDP’s Constitution and its task is to control party activities for up to 90 days and in cases where a new executive committee is is formed.
The committee also includes members Harrison Omagbon, Fidel Igenegbale, Chris Nehikhare, Tony Anenih Jnr, Anthony Okosun, Segun Saiki, Adezat Kuburat Ibrahim, and Augustine Edosomwan. The announcement was made during an inauguration event at the PDP Secretariat in Benin City.
Obaseki urges unity in fight for stolen mandate
Addressing the gathering, Governor Godwin Obaseki expressed determination to challenge what he described as a “stolen mandate” from the recent gubernatorial elections.
Obaseki said there are evdences to support the PDP’s allegations that the APC illegally seized the governorship seat in the September 21 election. He called on party members, chairpersons of the local government and other stakeholders to join efforts as they seek a legal redress to occupy the seat.
“We are not just fighting for our candidate; we are defending democracy in Nigeria,” said Obaseki. “We have evidence that our mandate was stolen, and we will use all legal processes available to recover it.”
He stressed the importance of party cohesion as the PDP heads into tribunal hearings slated to begin in December.
According to Punch, Obaseki emphasized his commitment to the party, vowing to remain engaged and advising against any attempts by opponents to sway public perception.
He further highlighted alleged financial misappropriations by the APC, citing unauthorized withdrawals and allocations totaling billions to support the rival party’s inauguration efforts.
Ighodalo calls for preparedness in legal battle
The PDP’s governorship candidate, Asue Ighodalo, rallied party members to remain steadfast as they prepare for what he described as a “tough journey” to reclaim the governorship.
Ighodalo commended Governor Obaseki’s commitment to the cause and confirmed the party’s lawyers were ready for the tribunal proceedings.
Moreover, he outlined the legal timeline, noting the opposing party’s petition response is expected next week, after which the PDP will have five days to reply. Pre-hearing sessions are anticipated by late November.
“We know the difficulties exist, but we have to be strong,” Ighodalo said, as they continue with the legal procedures.
He further affirmed that this fight for reform is very important, noting that what is at stake is the commitment of the electorate of Edo State to free and fair election.
