Edo 2024: Chaos Unfolds as Parallel Primaries Produce Two Winners in APC
Edo State’s chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) witnessed confusion as two winners emerged from parallel primaries for the party’s gubernatorial candidacy. The declaration of House of Representatives member Dennis Idahosa as the winner by the Primary Election Committee, led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, sparked disputes and heightened tensions.
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Uzodimma announced Idahosa as the victor at Protea Hotel, Government Reservation Area (GRA), Benin, following the collation of results from the state’s 18 local government areas. However, Senator Monday Okpebholo and former Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Prince Clem Agba, contested the results, each claiming victory in the primary election.
Idahosa, currently representing Ovia constituency in the National Assembly, secured 40,453 votes, while Senator Monday Okpebholo garnered 100 votes. The results included Blessing Agbomhere – 50 votes, Maj.Gen. Charles Airhiavbere (rtd.) – 162; Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor – 180; Col. David Imuse (rtd.) – 400; Dr. Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe – 02; Gideon Ikhine – 700; Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu – 02; Anamero Dekeri – 230; Prince Clem Agba – 100; and Chief Lucky Imasuen – 02.
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Uzodimma asserted that the primary conducted by his committee was the authentic one and highlighted the peaceful process across the state’s 192 wards. However, chaos ensued when armed thugs disrupted the collation process at Lushville Hotel and Suites in Benin, leading to injuries among journalists and destruction of equipment.
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As Uzodimma finalized result declarations, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, who had withdrawn from the race, declared Okpebholo as the winner of the parallel election at his residence.
The chaos unfolded as two more aspirants, Chief Lucky Imasuen and Dr. Ernest Umakhihe, withdrew from the primary election, citing the interest of peace and party unity. The parallel primaries further intensified the political turmoil within the Edo APC.
The APC national leadership urged members and the public to disregard unofficial results, emphasizing that only the Governor Hope Uzodinma-led committee is authorized to announce final results. The party disassociated itself from unauthorized announcements on national television and online platforms.
The conflicting outcomes and ongoing disputes underscore the challenges faced by the APC in Edo State, setting the stage for a contentious political landscape in the lead-up to the governorship election.
