A fierce political contest is underway in Edo State, as 62 aspirants from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Congress (APC), and Labour Party (LP) compete for their respective party’s governorship tickets. With party primaries scheduled for the upcoming month, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has set the gubernatorial election for September 21, 2024, coinciding with the end of Governor Godwin Obaseki’s second term.
The aspirants, spanning across the PDP, APC, and LP, include 32 from the Labour Party, 19 from the APC, and 11 from the PDP. Among them are three women, reflecting the diverse pool of contenders, with a majority hailing from the Edo Central Senatorial Zone.
Key PDP aspirants include Comrade Philip Shaibu, the current Deputy Governor, as well as Mr. Asue Ighodalo, John Yakubu, and Anslem Ojezua.
Comrade Philip Shaibu, from Jattu, Uzaiure, emphasizes his experience and historical significance as a candidate from Edo North.
Asue Ighodalo, from Ewohimi in Esan South-East, asserts his governmental experience since 2008 as a member of the Economic Team during Comrade Adams Oshiomhole’s governorship.
John Yakubu, known for grassroots involvement as the former local government chairman of Esan North-East, underscores his performance in local governance.
Anslem Ojezua, a native of Eidenu in Irrua, Esan Central LGA, positions himself as a stabilizer and bridge between technocrats and politicians.
Prominent APC aspirants include Prince Clem Agba, a former commissioner and Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, and Dennis Idahosa, a second-term member of the House of Representatives known as “Mr. Projects.”
Other notable figures include Prof Oserheimen Osunbor, a former governor, Mr. Gideon Obhakhan, a philanthropist and former commissioner for Education, and Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, the APC candidate in 2020.
The LP field features individuals like Barr Ken Imasuangbon, known as the “Rice Man,” and Olumide Akpata, former president of the Nigerian Bar Association.
This crowded political landscape reflects the intense competition for the governorship position, as candidates seek to succeed Governor Obaseki and address the challenges facing Edo State.
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