On Thursday, a parallel congress convened by the Edo State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) resulted in the nomination of the state’s deputy governor, Rt. Hon Philip Shaibu, as the party’s gubernatorial candidate for the upcoming September 21 election.
As some delegates underwent accreditation for another primary at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, a separate group gathered at a facility on Commercial Avenue in Benin City. Here, they proclaimed Shaibu as the PDP’s chosen candidate, alleging discrepancies in the accreditation process. They claimed to have been denied access and raised concerns about the authenticity of the delegate list, citing entries from Bayelsa State and names associated with the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC).
Bartholomew Moses announced Shaibu’s victory in the parallel primary, stating he secured 301 votes. However, the event was disrupted by gunmen dressed as vigilantes who fired shots, dispersing attendees.
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Before this parallel election, Festus Owu’s delegation had lodged a protest at the deputy governor’s residence, asserting disenfranchisement. Shaibu, addressing the protesters, urged peace and assured them of their rights as authentic delegates. He promised to present their grievances to the relevant authorities.
In a later statement to the press, Shaibu reiterated the legitimacy of the delegates’ claims, emphasizing the importance of genuine representation in the electoral process. He affirmed his commitment to ensuring that only legitimate votes are recognized in the election.
