The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) launched its statewide governorship campaign yesterday, asserting confidence in its impending victory and urging security agencies to uphold fairness throughout the electoral process.
The campaign rally, held in Ubiaja, the headquarters of Esan South West Local Government Area, featured prominent party leaders, including former Minister of Foreign Affairs Tom Ikimi, former Deputy Governor Mike Ogiadomhe, State Chairman Tony Aziegbemi, Senator Odion Ugbesia, and Deputy National Youth Leader Tim Osadolor.
Edo State House of Assembly member Blessing Agbebaku praised Governor Godwin Obaseki for his intellectual approach to governance and emphasized that only the PDP’s governorship candidate, Asue Ighodalo, and his running mate, Osarodion Ogie, possess the qualifications to build on Obaseki’s legacy.
Francis Inegbeneki responded to allegations regarding his political stance, clarifying that he was not evading scrutiny and rejecting the APC candidate Okpebholo’s qualifications, claiming he lacks the necessary capabilities for the role.
Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, the governor’s wife, highlighted the PDP’s commitment to fairness by selecting Asue Ighodalo as their candidate, contrasting it with other parties she described as copying the PDP’s approach but lacking competence in their own choices.
Tom Ikimi appealed to President Bola Tinubu and law enforcement agencies, including the Inspector General of Police and the Director General of the Department of State Services, to ensure a secure and impartial election day. He emphasized the importance of letting every vote count and securing the electoral process for all participants.
The rally served as a platform for the PDP to assert its readiness for the upcoming gubernatorial election, with a strong focus on advocating for fair treatment by security agencies and reinforcing the party’s commitment to integrity and competence in governance.
