The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has made significant strides in Edo North as it continued its extensive campaign across the region. The party’s campaign events in Fugar, Etsako Central, and Agbede, Etsako West, were marked by notable defections from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the PDP.
Massive Turnout and Defections
Governor Godwin Obaseki, who led the PDP’s campaign efforts, expressed his satisfaction with the overwhelming turnout at the events. “I have never seen this type of crowd in all the places we have visited,” Obaseki remarked, highlighting the impressive attendance even in smaller local government areas like Etsako Central.
During the visit to Fugar, hundreds of APC members switched allegiance to the PDP, signaling a strong shift in political sentiment. Obaseki commended the residents for their participation in the continuous voter registration exercise, which he said has bolstered Etsako Central’s voting strength.
Promises and Vision for Edo State
Governor Obaseki also outlined plans for further development, noting that Etsako Central is set to benefit from a gas pipeline project. He praised Asue Ighodalo, the PDP candidate, as a “Chief Master Planner” with a vision to utilize the gas for electricity generation, which he believes will propel Edo State toward greater progress and prosperity.
Ighodalo, in his address, lauded the achievements of the Obaseki administration, including advancements in education, workers’ welfare, and infrastructure. He pledged to build upon these successes, eradicate poverty, and enhance governance if elected.
Support from PDP Chieftains
Chief Mike Ogiadomeh, a prominent PDP chieftain and former Chief of Staff to President Goodluck Jonathan, set a positive tone at the Fugar Open Field, highlighting the administration’s contributions to Etsako Central. Barr. Pascal Ugbome, another key party figure, praised Ighodalo and his running mate Osarodion Ogie, emphasizing their capability to elevate Edo State further.
Hon. Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, Director General of the Asue Ogie Campaign Council, asserted that the APC is not a viable option for progress in Edo State. He urged voters to support the PDP for continuity and progress.
Enthusiastic Reception in Agbede
The campaign event in Agbede was also met with enthusiasm, as a large crowd welcomed Governor Obaseki and his team late into the night. Abudu Makoh, who led over two hundred APC defectors to the PDP, cited the governor’s successful projects and governance as key reasons for their shift. Makoh assured that the new PDP members are committed to supporting and defending their votes for the party.
Call to Action
Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, the state chairman of the PDP, encouraged voters to turn out in large numbers on September 21 to support the party. He also appealed to Chief Dan Orbih, a former leader of the Legacy PDP, to return to the party. The campaign trail, characterized by high energy and significant defections, underscores the PDP’s strong momentum in Edo North as the election approaches.
