A staggering 68 aspirants have entered the fray, gearing up to contest for the Edo State governorship seat ahead of the imminent party primary elections.
Punch reports that the contenders are jostling for the tickets of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Congress (APC), and Labour Party (LP).
According to the report, there 11 aspirants in the PDP, 29 in the APC, and 28 in the LP.
The APC’s decision against zoning the ticket to Edo Central has intensified the race, prompting diverse entries, including the unexpected participation of the state APC chairman, Col. David Imuse (retd), serving senators, House of Representatives members, and notable figures like former commissioner, Kassim Afegbua and former APC candidate Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu.
Renowned figures like Kenneth Imasuagbon in Labour Party, contesting for the fifth time under different political banners, advocate for experienced candidates, challenging the rising influence of political newcomers like Olumide Akpata and Dorry Okogie, sparking debates on the essence of political experience versus fresh perspectives.
Notably, the deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, engaged in a power struggle with Governor Godwin Obaseki. He announced his intent, emphasising his 30 years in politics and determination to sustain his boss’s legacy.
An ally of the deputy governor, Immam Babangida, said that Shaibu could pick the PDP ticket if the party provided a level playing ground for all the aspirants.
He said: “I am happy that the governor said that it is the members of the party that will determine Shaibu’s fate. But Governor Obaseki and the PDP must ensure there is a level playing ground for everyone to operate. Shaibu has the pedigree to win the ticket at the primaries.
“He has done well throughout his career and he is the only one who can help the PDP to remain in the saddle in the state. Without him, the PDP cannot win the election.”