Members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State turned out in large numbers on Saturday to participate in ward congresses across the state, despite heavy rainfall.
The exercise, which was conducted in all 192 wards, saw the election of new executives and delegates, signaling renewed momentum for the party.
In Benin City, journalists observed the congresses at Oredo Wards I, II, and III, where the event was marked by enthusiasm, orderliness, and high voter turnout. Many party loyalists arrived at the polling venues as early as 7:30 a.m., braving the downpour to cast their votes.
Leading the monitoring exercise was the PDP State Caretaker Committee Chairman, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, who was accompanied by members of the Ward Congress Electoral Committee from the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.
“The ward congresses were very peaceful. Members of the PDP were vibrant, very active and elected the 17-member executives in the wards we attended,” Aziegbemi noted.
He admitted that he was initially uncertain about the turnout but was “pleasantly surprised” by the commitment of party members. “I was jittery at first, not knowing what to expect, but I was moved by the enthusiasm. We think PDP is rising, and we believe we will give the APC a run for their money,” he added.
Expressing confidence in the party’s prospects, Aziegbemi said the “abysmal failure of the government at both the federal and state levels” would give the PDP an advantage in reclaiming Edo State in the 2027 elections.
Chairman of the PDP Ward Congress Electoral Committee, Mr. Tariga Tulagha, also praised members for their discipline and unity during the exercise. “We went out to conduct elections for officers and delegates across all wards, and so far, it has been peaceful with full compliance with the law. Despite the rain, people turned out massively, and we are impressed,” he said.
Addressing speculation about a possible internal rift within the PDP in Edo, Tulagha dismissed such claims, stressing that the voting process demonstrated cohesion. “We observed a unity of purpose. If there was division, it would have shown in the voting process. But when motions were raised, the ‘ayes’ were 100 per cent and the ‘nays’ were zero. The issue of factions does not apply here,” he explained.
The successful ward congresses, according to both leaders, underscored the party’s resilience and commitment to democratic values in Edo State.
What You Should Know
Despite heavy rain, PDP members in Edo State turned out for ward congresses across 192 wards. Leaders hailed the peaceful process as proof of unity and strength, dismissing rumours of internal division.
The exercise is seen as a sign of PDP’s renewed push ahead of the 2027 elections.
