As the race for Edo Governorship election heats up, the leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) drawn from Edo North Senatorial District have distanced themselves from statement made by a group of ‘ex-officers’ on the September 2024 election in the state.
Their rejection is contained in a statement issued November 22, 2023 and made available to journalists.
The statement reads: “The Edo North PDP Progressive Leaders Forum notes with grave sadness and apprehension the purported statement issued by a group of former office holders concerning the political situation and imminent Governorship elections in Edo state .
“The forum wishes to state that it is in no way supportive of the position held by these ex-office holders who claim to speak on behalf of Edo North Leaders .
“The forum states the need to depart from unproductive matters, that the exigencies of the time demand a firm, honest, collective, progressive, and forward thinking approach as it affects the party.”
Below are the resolutions reached by the PDP leaders:
The political situation in Edo sate fueled and driven by the Governor can not be allowed to produce the party’s candidate in the next election.
The forum totally condemns the divisive and reckless statements of the party Chairman which is tantamount to introducing tribal politics into Edo state and thus bringing the PDP into disrepute.
The forum further notes that the State Chairman of the party should, as a matter of honour, resign with immediate effect.
The forum agreed unanimously that the candidate of the party must emerge from a democratic process guided by the party’s guidelines.
The forum believes in the fundamental democratic right of any aspirant from any part of the state to contest the Governorship elections.
Furthermore, this fundamental right is a constitutional right enshrined in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
The forum states very vigorously that the process must be open to all party members whose contributions and presence in party affairs and matters are well documented over several years.
The forum notes with appreciation the staunch and indefatigable position on fundamental issues of integrity and justice for the PDP canvassed by Chief Dan Orbih.
The forum passed a vote of confidence on the Leader of the party and South -South Chairman of the party, Chief Dan Orbih.
The forum further urges all loyal PDP members across Edo North and, indeed, the state to rally round its leader, Chief Dan Orbih, as we approach 2024.
The communique was signed by selected leaders, including Hajiya Hadizat Umoru, Hon Oladele Bankole-Balogun, Prince Ugbodagha, Hon Jega, Alhaji Chief Sule Duru Yesufu, Richard Ehimegbai, Barr. Tony Innih and Eng. Fred Attah. Others are Subedetu Egbeadokhai, Mrs Aroyame, Moses Ikiroda and Mike Abekhe.