The All Progressives Congress (APC) has taken decisive action in the wake of the controversy surrounding the Edo State governorship primary, removing Governor Hope Uzodimma as Chairman of the Elections Committee.
This move comes following the uproar that ensued after the primary held last Saturday.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the APC National Organising Secretary, Sulaiman Argungu, it was revealed that Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State will now take over as Uzodimma’s successor.
Otu has been tasked with overseeing the re-run poll scheduled for Thursday, February 22.
The decision to replace Uzodimma was prompted by calls from four leading aspirants, including Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, Chief Lucky Imasuen, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and General Charles Airhiavbere (retd.), who expressed doubts about his ability to conduct a free and fair election.
The primary itself was marred by controversy, with conflicting reports emerging regarding the winner. While Uzodimma declared Dennis Idahosa as the victor, the returning officers announced Sunday Dekeri as the winner in various LGAs, sparking confusion and allegations of irregularities.
Prior to the primary, several aspirants withdrew from the race, citing various reasons including the party’s decision to zone the ticket to the central senatorial district of the state.
In response to the chaos, the APC declared the primary as inconclusive, leading to the scheduling of a new primary on Thursday to determine the party’s flagbearer for the September 2024 governorship election in Edo State.
The APC National Working Committee convened an emergency meeting to address the lingering crisis, resolving to complete the primary election process on Thursday, February 22, 2024.
