Edo PDP Congress Records Peaceful Turnout Across 192 Wards

Members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State defied heavy rainfall on Saturday to participate in the party’s ward congresses across all 192 wards. In Benin City’s Oredo Wards I, II, and III, where the News Agency of Nigeria monitored proceedings, the atmosphere was peaceful as members turned out in large numbers to cast their votes.

Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, caretaker chairman of the PDP in Edo, who joined the ward congress electoral committee from Abuja to observe the exercise, praised the resilience of members. He described the turnout as a sign of the party’s renewed strength and rising profile.

“The ward congresses were very peaceful. Members of the PDP were very vibrant and active, and they elected the 17-member executive in the wards we visited. We are excited and deeply grateful to PDP members in the state for their enthusiasm,” Aziegbemi said.

PDP Leadership Expresses Renewed Confidence

Aziegbemi admitted that he was initially uncertain about the level of participation due to the rain but was “pleasantly surprised” by the commitment of members. According to him, many supporters arrived at the polling grounds as early as 7:30 a.m. to ensure their votes were cast.

“We think PDP is rising, and we believe we will give the APC a run for their money,” he declared. He further argued that what he called the “abysmal failure of government both at the federal and state levels” could pave the way for PDP to reclaim Edo in the 2027 elections.

The congresses saw the election of new executives and delegates across all wards, a process that observers said was conducted in compliance with party guidelines and electoral regulations.

Electoral Committee Applauds Unity and Peace

Mr. Tariga Tulagha, chairman of the PDP Ward Congress Electoral Committee, commended the discipline and unity displayed by members throughout the exercise. He confirmed that the congresses were free of violence or irregularities.

“We went out for the purpose of conducting the elections for officers and delegates across all wards, and so far, the exercise was peaceful,” Tulagha noted. “Despite the rain, people came out in their numbers, and we are impressed.”

He dismissed speculations of internal division within the party, insisting that the unanimity displayed during voting reflected harmony. “When motions were raised, those in support of the elected officers said ‘aye’ 100 percent, while the ‘nays’ were zero. The issue of factions does not apply here,” he emphasized.