Controversy marred the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary in Edo State on Saturday as two candidates were proclaimed winners in what has become a divisive moment for the party ahead of the September 21 gubernatorial election.
In an unusual turn of events, Mr. Dennis Idahosa, representing the Ovia Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, was declared the winner at the Protea Hotel by the APC Primary Election Committee chaired by the Governor of Imo State, Sen. Hope Uzodimma. Concurrently, Senator Monday Okpebholo was announced as the winner by the election’s Returning Officer, Dr. Stanley Ugboaje, at the residence of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu.
Governor Uzodimma’s committee announced that Idahosa secured 40,453 votes, outpacing 11 other aspirants in the race. The detailed vote count presented by Uzodimma, alongside the deputy chairman of the committee and Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Bassey Otu; committee Secretary, Lawan Garba, and other members, confirmed Idahosa’s victory with a significant lead over his competitors.
However, in a separate declaration, Dr. Stanley Ugboaje proclaimed Senator Monday Okpebholo as the winner with 12,145 votes, placing Idahosa in second place with 5,536 votes. Ugboaje’s announcement came amidst confusion and tension, exacerbated by an attack on journalists by over 100 suspected political thugs who disrupted the second primary’s collation and announcement process. The assault on the media personnel occurred despite the presence of armed security at the venue, raising concerns about safety and the integrity of the electoral process.
This dual declaration has plunged the APC into a quandary, casting shadows over the party’s unity and strategy as it approaches the Edo State governorship election. The incidents of violence and the emergence of two purported winners underscore the high stakes involved and the need for a resolution to maintain the party’s cohesion and public trust.