Ismail Abdulazeez Mantu, Reporting
Edo State, Nigeria
In a surprising turn of events, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate for the forthcoming Edo 2024 election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, has selected the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Mr. Osarodion Ogie, as his running mate, barring any last-minute changes.
Reliable sources within the party have disclosed to Truth Live News that the decision was reached after careful consideration, taking into account Ogie’s reputation as a grassroots politician with extensive connections across political parties in the state.
The choice of Mr. Osarodion Ogie is not without controversy, as it has sparked dissent within the party ranks. Pundits argue that, given Dr. Ighodalo is in his 60s, a younger running mate should have been selected. This perspective underscores concerns about the need for a generational shift in leadership, especially in a state known for its vibrant and diverse political landscape.
Furthermore, the decision is seen by some as potentially disrupting ongoing reconciliation efforts by the party’s national leadership. Mr. Ogie is perceived as a close ally of the current governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, who is believed to have played a significant role in Dr. Ighodalo’s candidacy. Critics within the party fear that aligning with Obaseki’s camp could hinder the party’s efforts to unite and work cohesively towards victory in the upcoming election.
Interestingly, political observers in Edo state have suggested that ceding the deputy governor slot to the Dan Orbih-led faction of the party might have paved the way for lasting peace within the party. Excluding this faction from the equation could potentially lead to internal strife, as they may feel sidelined and disengaged from the party’s decision-making processes.
As the situation currently stands, the Dan Orbih group appears to be on the brink of exclusion, leaving them with little incentive to actively participate in the upcoming election. The implications of this choice on the party’s unity and overall electoral strategy remain to be seen, but it has undoubtedly injected a new layer of complexity into the already dynamic political landscape of Edo State. All eyes are now on the PDP as they navigate these internal challenges in the run-up to the crucial 2024 gubernatorial election.