In preparation for the Edo State governorship election on September 21, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has given the nod to 10 aspirants to contest in the party’s primary election on February 22.
As learned by Quest Times, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has also amassed N650m from the sale of Nomination and Expression of Interest forms to 13 aspirants.
The PDP Screening Committee, led by Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, conducted screenings at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja on Monday.
After the screening, the committee reassured fairness and commitment to winning the Edo governorship poll.
Umar Bature, the PDP National Organising Secretary, confirmed on Tuesday that all 10 aspirants received clearance to compete in the February 22 primary.
Among the PDP aspirants are Edo State Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu, former Sterling Bank Chairman Asue Ighodalo, and Blessing Igbinedion.
On the APC front, the party’s Nomination Form fetched N40m, while the Expression of Interest Form was priced at N10m.
Notably, the Expression of Interest Form was made free for female aspirants and those with disabilities.
Despite the APC’s attempt to prune down aspirants, 13 individuals purchased the forms, including Clem Agba, Osagie Ize-Iyamu, and Oserheimen Osunbor.
The APC Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, assured fairness in the screening process, emphasizing the party’s goal to recapture Edo State.
“So the party is going to screen all those who have bought the forms and indicated interest. And they are going to be given a level playing field so that they bring in their best with a view to geting the people of Edo to buy in. So, they should expect fairness and we hope in return, they will also be fair,” he stated.
Conclusively, screening will determine eligibility based on specified criteria beyond form purchase.