Edo 2024: NO ZONING, PDP NWC/ EDO STAKEHOLDERS
The PDP national working Committee, NWC yesterday in Abuja held a meeting with critical stakeholders and governorship aspirants of Edo state at the PDP national headquarters in Abuja.
One of the key decisions made during this meeting was the announcement that zoning will not be used to determine where the next Governor of Edo state will be chosen from. This surprising move has generated mixed reactions among political analysts and party members.
According to a source zoning of the PDP Edo 2024 Guber elections was an agitation from Edo Central which has now been put to rest by the PDP NWC.
The APC has also followed suit by making it an open race the source revealed.
The source further revealed that the PDP agreed only loyal and active party members will be made aspirants for top positions in the party going forward unlike in the past when people came into party during election season, achieved their ambition and dumped the party thereafter.
Many perceive this decision as a welcome development that levels the playing field for all aspirants. By removing the zoning factor, candidates from any region within Edo state now have an equal opportunity to secure the party’s nomination for the upcoming gubernatorial election. This decision is seen as a departure from the traditional practice of rotating political positions among different regions to foster fairness and inclusivity.
“It was agreed that Edo has never done zoning. We have no tradition of zoning” said a reliable source, affirming the party’s stance on the matter.
The PDP’s decision to abandon zoning strategy signals a shift towards a more merit-based approach to leadership selection. Now, aspirants will be required to focus more on developing comprehensive and inclusive policies that will appeal to voters across the state instead of relying solely on regional or tribal affiliations. This move aims to encourage aspirants to prioritize the upliftment of the masses and the advancement of the entire state above any narrow considerations.
Furthermore, the PDP hopes that this decision will strengthen its chances of retaining the Governorship position in Edo state. By removing the restrictions imposed by zoning, the party hopes to attract the most competent and popular candidate, irrespective of their regional background. This could result in a stronger and more united PDP campaign, which, in turn, could attract a broader base of support from voters throughout Edo state.
Present at the meeting from Edo State were, H.E. Godwin Obaseki , H.E. Philip Shuaibu, Rt. Hon. Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbegbaku, Hon. Mrs Maria Edeko, H.E. Lucky Igbinedion, High Chief Tom Ikimi, H.E. Mike Ogiadomhe, Chief Dan Orbih,Professor Agbolahon, Hon. Mrs Herbeta Ayu, Mrs Philo Ihenyen, Prince Joe Okojie .
Among the aspirants present were Earl Osaro Onaiwu, former DG Governors Forum, Senator Clifford Ordia Barrister Anslem Ojezua, Barrister Asue ighodalo . Also present were
Orobosa Omo ojo. Senator Roland owie. Larry ogieva . Bankole Balogun and many many others.
The national chairman commended Earl osaro for his insistence on the meeting to be conveyed to address all outstanding issues affecting the party in Edo state.
Another issue raised was the reconcilation of all party members in the state. A 10 man committee was set up to calm frayed nerves and settle any issues among the warring factions.
