By Ohuakanwa Chibuzo
As Edo State gears up for primaries, the focus on candidate competence intensifies, but so does the debate over ‘justice, fairness, and equity’ in selecting party flag bearers.
With less than five weeks until the primaries, zoning disagreements have divided stakeholders, with opposition parties prioritizing winning over adherence to the rotation agreement among the senatorial districts.
Previously, the call to zone the governorship to Edo Central Senatorial district was prominent, but only the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) still supports this, while the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Labour Party (LP) open their tickets to all districts.
Governor Obaseki advocates for Edo Central’s turn, citing fairness, equity, and justice.
Opponents argue that the voting demographics favor Edo South, posing challenges for a party that fields candidate from Edo Central.
Internal PDP conflicts add complexity, with Deputy Governor Shaibu contesting against Obaseki’s preferred candidate, accusing betrayal and opposing the zoning arrangement.
Multiple PDP aspirants, including Ighodalo, Ojezua, and Akhabue, vie for the ticket, adding to the political landscape.
APC, on the other hand, emphasizes capacity over zoning, with aspirants from Edo Central, North, and South competing.
The debate over zoning echoes sentiments from other states, emphasizing the need for a capable leader.
As the primaries approach, Edo State faces a complex political landscape, balancing regional considerations and individual qualifications.
