Edo 2024: Can APC, PDP, LP Overcome

The September 21 gubernatorial election in Edo State is just around the corner, and the three major political parties – the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the Labour Party (LP) – have flagged off their campaigns. However, internal wranglings within the parties are threatening to tear them apart and jeopardize their chances of winning the election.

The Contenders

The APC, PDP, and LP are the major contenders in the Edo 2024 gubernatorial election, given their extensive membership, geographical spread, and financial strength. The ruling PDP, currently led by Governor Godwin Obaseki, is striving to maintain its hold on the state amidst growing opposition. The APC and LP, buoyed by their performance in the 2023 general elections, are eager to unseat the PDP and present themselves as the viable alternatives for the people of Edo State.

The APC is putting forth a strong challenge, leveraging its significant gains from the previous national elections. However, the internal discord and recent defections have cast a shadow over its campaign efforts. Similarly, the LP, which has been gaining momentum, is now facing a critical juncture due to disagreements over its deputy governorship candidate. Political analysts suggest that these internal conflicts could undermine the parties’ ability to mount a unified front against the PDP, potentially altering the election’s dynamics.

Internal Wranglings

The Labour Party’s internal crisis centers on the replacement of its deputy governorship candidate, Oluyinka Faith Alufohai, with Yusuf Kadiri (SAN). This move has sparked dissent among party members, with some factions outright rejecting Kadiri’s candidacy. Additionally, the legitimacy of the party’s primary election is being challenged by disgruntled members, raising concerns about the party’s unity and coherence as the election approaches. The fear of a divided house looms large, which could significantly weaken the LP’s prospects at the polls.

The APC is also grappling with severe internal issues, particularly following the controversial composition of its Campaign Council. The fallout led to the resignation of prominent figures like Chief Francis Inegbeneki and John Mayaki, whose departures have left a void in the party’s strategic planning. Furthermore, defections to the PDP have exacerbated the APC’s woes, with some members openly vowing to sabotage the party’s chances from within. These internal fractures could severely compromise the APC’s ability to effectively challenge the incumbent PDP.

Similarly, the PDP is not immune to internal strife. Aggrieved members such as former Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu and Hon Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama have voiced their discontent and taken actions that could undermine the party’s campaign. Shaibu’s public endorsement of the APC candidate and Ogbeide-Ihama’s provision of campaign vehicles and secretariats to the APC highlight the deep-seated rifts within the PDP. These internal struggles threaten to dilute the PDP’s efforts to present a united front and retain control of Edo State.

As the election date draws near, the ability of these parties to resolve their internal conflicts will be crucial in determining their success. The outcome of the Edo 2024 gubernatorial election may very well hinge on which party can overcome its internal wranglings and present a cohesive and compelling case to the electorate.

Upper Hand In the Governorships Election: Edo 2024

Analysts argue that no single party currently has the upper hand in the race for the Edo State gubernatorial election. The All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the Labour Party (LP) have all experienced gains and losses in their memberships. The ability of each party to capitalize on the defections occurring within rival camps will significantly influence which party emerges dominant. Notably, the PDP’s incumbency and financial resources might provide it with a strategic advantage in this political contest.

The fluctuating allegiances and defections among the major parties indicate a volatile political landscape. Each party is working diligently to strengthen its base and attract disaffected members from the opposition. The outcome of these efforts will be critical in determining which party can claim superiority as the election approaches. While the PDP’s established presence and financial strength are noteworthy, the APC and LP are equally determined to leverage their own strategies to gain the upper hand.

Biggest Asset to PDP

One of the PDP’s most significant assets is its deputy governorship candidate, Osarodion Ogie. Ogie is a seasoned politician with extensive experience, having served in various capacities over the years. His widespread popularity across different religious and traditional communities in Edo State positions him as a key figure in the PDP’s campaign. Analysts believe that the PDP’s path to victory largely hinges on Ogie’s influence and ability to galvanize support from a broad spectrum of the electorate.

Ogie’s political credentials and charismatic appeal make him a formidable force in the gubernatorial race. His ability to connect with Muslims, Christians, and traditionalists alike gives the PDP a unique advantage. By rallying behind Ogie, the PDP aims to consolidate its voter base and attract undecided voters, thereby enhancing its chances of winning the election. His presence on the ticket is expected to play a pivotal role in the party’s overall strategy.

Implications

The internal conflicts within the major political parties have profound implications for the election outcome. The APC has suffered from defections, which have eroded its support base. Conversely, the PDP’s internal crisis has also led to a decline in its popularity, as factions within the party struggle for dominance. These internal divisions could significantly impact the parties’ abilities to present a united front to the electorate.

The LP is not immune to internal strife either, with divisions threatening to cost it crucial votes in key metropolitan areas such as Edo, Oredo, Egor, and Ikpoba-Okah, as well as parts of Edo North. These strongholds are vital for the LP’s electoral strategy, and any loss of support in these regions could be detrimental. Overall, the internal wranglings within the APC, PDP, and LP create an unpredictable landscape leading up to the Edo State gubernatorial election.

Ultimately, the party that manages to overcome its internal conflicts and presents a cohesive and united front will likely have the upper hand in this crucial election. While the PDP’s incumbency and financial muscle may offer some advantage, the grassroots support of the LP and the APC’s determination to unseat the ruling party cannot be underestimated. The dynamics of internal party politics will play a critical role in shaping the electoral outcomes in Edo State.