Members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State on Saturday defied a heavy downpour to participate in the party’s ward congresses, during which new executives and delegates were elected across the state’s 192 wards.
At Oredo Wards I, II, and III in Benin City, where the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) monitored the exercise, the process was peaceful, with party members turning out in large numbers to cast their votes.
Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, the state caretaker chairman of the party, monitored the congresses alongside members of the ward congress electoral committee from Abuja. He described the turnout as a reflection of the party’s resilience and growing strength.
“The ward congresses were very peaceful. PDP members were vibrant, active, and they elected 17-member executives in the wards we attended. From what we saw, we are very excited and grateful for the enthusiasm,” he said.
Aziegbemi admitted he had been uncertain about the outcome but was impressed by the commitment of members who arrived at the venues early, despite the rain.
“I was pleasantly surprised to see PDP faithful come out under the rain. As early as 7:30 a.m., people were already on ground to cast their votes. We believe PDP is rising, and we will give the APC a run for their money,” he added.
He expressed optimism that what he described as the “failure of government at the federal and state levels” would pave the way for PDP to reclaim Edo State in 2027.
Similarly, the Chairman of the PDP Ward Congress Electoral Committee, Mr. Tariga Tulagha, praised the peaceful conduct of the exercise, noting that it complied fully with the law.
“Despite the rain, people came out in their numbers, and we are impressed. There was no trouble, and the process showed unity of purpose. If there were divisions, it would have reflected during the voting, but the support was unanimous,” Tulagha said.
He dismissed speculations of internal crisis, stressing that the outcome of the polls proved the unity and strength of the party at the grassroots.