The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is reportedly considering withdrawing from the Edo State governorship race due to internal conflicts and reservations expressed by their candidate, Asue Ighodalo.
Ighodalo has raised concerns about the party’s decision not to sign the Peace Accord, an initiative aimed at ensuring a peaceful electoral process. This has led to a rift between Ighodalo and Governor Godwin Obaseki, who has significant influence over the party’s decisions.
Obaseki has warned Ighodalo that continued questioning of the party’s position on the Peace Accord could result in his removal from the race and the PDP withdrawing its support. This development highlights the deepening divide between Ighodalo and Obaseki, who has invested heavily in Ighodalo’s campaign.
The situation is further complicated by the deployment of 35,000 police officers for the election, which Obaseki has criticized. Additionally, there are allegations that Obaseki has recruited 11,000 new members to the state vigilante network, which critics argue is an attempt to manipulate the election process.
Ighodalo faces significant financial risks if he loses the election, having invested a substantial amount of personal wealth in his campaign. He is also contending with the fallout from Obaseki’s public disputes with traditional rulers, which have complicated his campaign.
Rumors suggest that Obaseki is allocating a substantial portion of his monthly income to fund Ighodalo’s campaign, highlighting the high stakes for both parties. The outcome of these internal conflicts and external pressures will be crucial in determining the PDP’s future in the Edo governorship race.
