Edo PDP: Focused, United, Committed to Reclaiming Our Stolen Mandate – Aziegbemi
By The9jaTREND
The Edo State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Thursday, April 24, 2025, held a strategic stakeholders meeting, convening leaders, members, and supporters from across the 18 local government areas of the State.
Held at the party secretariat on Aiguobasimwin Crescent, Benin City, the meeting aimed to reinforce party unity, update stakeholders on ongoing efforts to reclaim the party’s stolen mandate following the last governorship election, strengthen internal structures, and chart strategic pathways to navigate challenges at both state and national levels.
The gathering provided a platform for leaders and faithful to reaffirm their loyalty to the PDP and its leadership under the Chairman of the Caretaker Committee, Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, while expressing strong support for the legal processes aimed at reclaiming the party’s mandate.
In attendance were prominent figures including the PDP gubernatorial candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, and his running mate, Osarodion Ogie; the Caretaker Committee Chairman, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi; former Governor, Chief Lucky Igbinedion; former Deputy Governors, Mike Ogiadomen and Marvellous Omobayo; National Leader, Chief Tom Ikimi; and House of Representatives Member, Marcus Onobun. Other key stakeholders present included Sen. Odion Ogbesia, Dickson Imasogie, Timothy Osadolor, Dr. Larry Ogieva, Idehen Ebowonyi, Joe Okogie, Yakubu John, Friday Itulah, Pascal Ugbome, amongst others.
Also in attendance were party chairmen from all 18 LGAs, elected council chairmen, vice-chairmen, councillors, House of Assembly members elected on the PDP platform—including the Speaker and Deputy Speaker—as well as former commissioners, special advisers, senior special assistants, and other vital stakeholders.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Aziegbemi emphasized the party’s resilience and unwavering commitment to reclaiming its mandate through legal means, urging all members to remain focused, united, and strong. He charged LGA chairmen to replicate similar stakeholder meetings at the local and ward levels to sustain momentum across the grassroots.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Asue Ighodalo commended party members for their steadfastness, stressing that the tribunal’s judgement was flawed. He reassured the gathering that his legal team had already filed an appeal and expressed optimism that justice would prevail at the appellate courts.
“Our lawyers are working hard, and we believe in justice,” Ighodalo stated. “Let us stay strong; God is hearing our cries. We will restructure, strengthen, and refocus the party. Everyone who worked with loyalty for the PDP will be appropriately rewarded. The era of rewarding non-contributors is over.”
Also speaking, former Governor Chief Lucky Igbinedion, who chaired the meeting, encouraged members to remain committed to the PDP’s ideals, reaffirming that the PDP remains the largest, strongest, and most democratic party in Nigeria. He expressed confidence that the party has the capacity to triumph in major future elections.
Chief Tom Ikimi, in his address, lauded the dedication of committed party members and warned of the dangers of a one-party state under the APC, which he described as a hijacked structure serving narrow interests.
According to Ikimi, “Despite the grave difficulties our country faces under the APC, there are desperate attempts to destroy the PDP and establish a one-party dictatorship. However, the survival and strengthening of the PDP is crucial for Nigeria’s democratic future.”
He concluded by expressing optimism about the party’s prospects, citing ongoing leadership adjustments and reaffirming that with steadfastness, both the PDP and Nigeria will witness better days soon.
The meeting also allowed stakeholders from the three senatorial districts—Edo South, Edo Central, and Edo North—to air their concerns. Party leaders and members jointly proffered solutions, further strengthening internal solidarity and charting the way forward.
