Our reporter
In the wake of the Edo State 2024 governorship election, tensions have flared within the ranks of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following allegations that certain members betrayed the party by voting for the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The division was brought to the forefront during a post-election appreciation event hosted by PDP’s deputy governorship candidate, Osarodion Ogie, aimed at thanking loyal party members.
Held at Ogie’s residence on Aideyan Street, GRA, the event took a surprising turn when Nicolas Osonsere, a member of the Edo State House of Assembly representing Ikpoba-Okha Constituency, addressed the crowd.
Osonsere, visibly agitated, issued a verbal curse directed at anyone in attendance who might have accepted PDP’s hospitality yet secretly cast their vote for the opposition. His words, though unexpected, reflected the deep frustration within the party over its recent defeat.
The event was coordinated by Eseosa Ewere, Chief Press Secretary to Ikpoba-Okha Council Chairman Eric Osayande, and saw numerous guests enjoying a well-prepared meal.
As Ogie began addressing the crowd, thanking them for their support, Osonsere interrupted, declaring, “Anyone who has come to eat with us today but voted for APC, may they suffer for it.”
While the lawmaker’s remarks drew a mix of reactions, including laughter from some attendees, they underscored the strong emotions lingering in PDP’s ranks after the September 21 election. APC’s candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, had won the race with 291,667 votes, defeating PDP’s Asue Ighodalo, who received 247,655 votes.
Ogie, maintaining a diplomatic tone, encouraged party members not to lose hope. He assured them that efforts were underway to challenge the election outcome in court, vowing that PDP’s mandate would be reclaimed.
He was later joined by Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, Director-General of the Asue/Ogie Campaign Council, who echoed Ogie’s sentiments and cited biblical references to reinforce the party’s resolve to seek justice.
The gathering, attended by key figures like the State Commissioner for Urban Planning and Physical Development, Isoken Omo, highlighted both the party’s resilience and the internal strain caused by alleged disloyalty.
As PDP leaders prepare to challenge the election results, party unity and loyalty remain paramount amidst the ongoing push to restore their political foothold in Edo State.
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