The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed strong confidence in its prospects for the upcoming governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states, stating it will be challenging for the All Progressives Congress (APC) to secure a win in either state. This assertion was made by the PDP National Chairman, Umar Damagum, during a recent party gathering.
Damagum emphasized that the emergence of the PDP candidates in these states signals a promising outcome for the party. He reiterated the party’s determination not to allow any attempts to undermine its victory. “We will not sit down and allow anybody to search, grab, and steal. We will be battle-ready for any thief who rears his head to steal our fortune,” Damagum stated.
Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State was praised for laying a solid foundation that positions the PDP favorably for the state election. “We have done so well in Edo State. We thank the governor. We are very proud of him. Our records in that state speak volumes,” Damagum added, highlighting the governor’s achievements and their positive impact on the party’s prospects.
Addressing the upcoming election in Ondo, Damagum pointed out that the state presents another opportunity for the PDP to bring about meaningful change. He acknowledged past shortcomings but expressed confidence in the renewed commitment and resolve of the party members in Ondo. “You have a brand new candidate who is so much endowed with wisdom. If I can say, his emergence has a hand of God in it,” he noted.
Damagum urged the campaign councils for both states to remain vigilant and proactive in the face of potential challenges. “You have to open your eyes, shine your eyes. They will come with all sorts of antics, but this time around, we are ready for them. We will match them,” he emphasized, assuring the councils of the party’s full support in their efforts.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Edo Campaign Council, chaired by Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa, comprises 148 members, including Governors Sherrif Oborevwori of Delta and Kefas Agbu of Taraba as deputy chairmen. The Ondo Campaign Council, chaired by Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun, includes 177 members, with Governors Dauda Lawal of Zamfara and Caleb Muftwang of Plateau as deputy chairmen.
Governor Fintiri, speaking on behalf of the campaign councils, reaffirmed the PDP’s commitment and readiness for the elections. “We are ready for Edo. We will not leave anything to chance. We will leverage on Obaseki’s performance,” he said, noting the party’s strategic advantages in both states.
PDP Chieftain in Edo, Chief Tom Ikimi, also voiced his confidence in the party’s victory, citing Governor Obaseki’s exemplary performance and initiatives, such as the bold move to increase the basic salary to ₦70,000 for every worker. Ikimi expressed optimism that the PDP candidate, Asue Ighodalo, has the potential to transform Edo State.
In Ondo, former National Chairman, South-West of PDP, Dr. Eddy Olafeso, echoed similar sentiments, stressing that the party leaders and stakeholders are united behind the PDP candidate, Agboola Ajayi. “The story from Ondo will be that of success and victory,” Olafeso asserted, calling for the full support of the party leaders and elective members.
