Tensions rise in Edo State as key figures within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have formed an alliance against Governor Godwin Obaseki, signalling a rift within the party ahead of the 2024 governorship elections.
Chief Dan Orbih, Vice Chairman South-South of the PDP, along with former Deputy Governor Rt. Hon Philip Shaibu, and former Speaker of the state House of Assembly Rt. Hon Kabiru Adjoto, among others, have joined forces under the banner of the Legacy Group.
The Legacy Group convened at Orbih’s country home in Ogbona, Etsako Central Local Government Area, expressing dissatisfaction with Governor Obaseki’s leadership and approach to the upcoming elections in Edo State.
Orbih, denouncing his membership of the PDP campaign council, criticized Obaseki’s leadership, stating, “The current PDP led by Obaseki and his chosen candidate Asue Ighodalo cannot lead Edo.”
He emphasized the importance of the PDP Legacy Group supporting a candidate who truly represents the interests of the state.
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Orbih highlighted the historical significance of the PDP Legacy Group, stressing their commitment to unity, fairness, justice, and equity within the party. He criticized Obaseki’s alleged neglect of the group that played a pivotal role in his re-election in 2020.
“I am not part and parcel of the PDP campaign council… Obaseki and his chosen candidate is not the way forward,” Orbih declared.
Expressing solidarity with Shaibu, Orbih condemned his impeachment and assured him of the Legacy Group’s support. Shaibu, in turn, emphasized the need for an indigenous candidate who understands the challenges faced by the Edo people.
“We will not vote for an outsider in Edo State… We are in support of Chief Dan Orbih’s Legacy Group,” Shaibu affirmed.
Adjoto echoed the sentiments of Orbih and Shaibu, criticizing Obaseki’s failure to reward loyal party members and manage the success of the 2020 election victory effectively.
“We have seen what you saw and we are here to queue behind you anywhere you go we go,” Adjoto declared, pledging allegiance to Orbih’s leadership.
As tensions escalate within the PDP in Edo State, the emergence of the Legacy Group poses a significant challenge to Governor Obaseki’s re-election bid, setting the stage for a fiercely contested electoral battle in the months to come.