Despite a heavy downpour, members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State turned out in large numbers on Saturday to elect new executives and delegates across the state’s 192 wards.
At Oredo Wards I, II, and III in Benin City, the exercise was marked by orderliness, enthusiasm, and impressive participation, as party faithful braved the rains to cast their votes.
Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the PDP State Caretaker Committee, led the monitoring team alongside members of the Ward Congress Electoral Committee from the party’s national headquarters in Abuja.
He described the congress as a clear sign of the party’s resilience and renewed strength.
“The ward congresses were very peaceful. Members of the PDP were vibrant, very active, and elected the 17-member executives in the wards we attended,” Aziegbemi said.
Admitting initial concerns about turnout, he said he was pleasantly surprised by the dedication of party members, many of whom arrived at polling grounds as early as 7:30 a.m. despite the rain.
“I was jittery at first, not knowing what to expect, but I was moved by the enthusiasm. We believe PDP is rising, and we will give the APC a run for their money,” he added, expressing optimism for a PDP comeback in the 2027 elections.
Chairman of the PDP Ward Congress Electoral Committee, Mr. Tariga Tulagha, also commended the peaceful conduct and unity among members, dismissing claims of internal divisions.
“We observed a unity of purpose. If there was division, it would have shown in the voting process. But when motions were raised, the ‘ayes’ were 100 per cent and the ‘nays’ were zero. The issue of factions does not apply here,” he said.
Tulagha noted that the massive turnout, despite the weather, reflected the party’s determination to reposition itself for victory in future elections.
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