The All Progressives Congress (APC) is looking to capitalize on internal strife within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State as the September 21 governorship election approaches. This strategy was confirmed in separate interviews with Edo APC Chairman Jarret Tenebe and the party’s Woman Leader, Mrs. Patricia Okoebor-Benson.
The PDP recently expelled ex-deputy governor Philip Shaibu and National Vice Chairman (South-South) Dan Orbih for alleged anti-party activities. Despite the expulsions, the PDP maintains that their chances in the upcoming election remain unaffected. However, the APC believes this internal discord bodes well for their candidate, Senator Monday Okphebolo.
Tenebe expressed the APC’s intent to benefit from the PDP's turmoil, potentially even wooing expelled members to join their ranks. He highlighted the significance of retaining experienced political figures, criticizing the PDP’s decision to expel such influential members ahead of a major election.
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Echoing Tenebe’s sentiment, Okoebor-Benson asserted that the APC stands to gain from the PDP’s internal conflicts, boosting their prospects in the election. She dismissed the threat from other parties and predicted a victory for the APC, citing public dissatisfaction with the current administration.
In contrast, PDP Deputy National Publicity Secretary Ibrahim Abdullahi acknowledged the internal disagreements but downplayed their impact on the election. While he regretted the loss of Orbih, he argued that the expulsions would not significantly harm their campaign. He expressed confidence in their candidate, Asue Ighodalo, and criticized the expelled members' political maneuvers.
As the election date nears, both parties continue to strategize, with the APC seeking to turn the PDP’s internal discord to their advantage.
