The All Progressives Congress in Edo State has narrowed down its governorship aspirants from twenty-nine to four ahead of the primary election slated for February 17.
The announcement came from Peter Uwadia-Igbinigie, the party’s publicity secretary in Edo State, on Monday, February 5.
The four leading contenders are Lucky Imasuen, a former Edo deputy governor; Dennis Idahosa, representing Ovia constituency in the House of Representatives; Rtd. Col. David Imuse, the immediate past Edo APC chairman; and Senator Monday Okpekholo, representing Edo Central Senatorial District.
“The advisory committee, led by the representative of Owan Federal Constituency of Edo State in the House of Representatives, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, had a primary objective of encouraging aspirants vying for the party’s ticket to consider a reduction in their numbers.
“In the screening, the four governorship aspirants received a positive evaluation. The advisory committee operated within its terms of reference for efficient primary management.
“The initiative does not undermine the governorship aspirants’ constitutional rights in their pursuit of APC’s ticket in Edo State, evident in their procurement of the expression of interest and nomination forms,” Uwadia-Igbinigie said.
Among these aspirants, Lucky Imasuen and Dennis Idahosa hail from the Edo South senatorial district, while Col. David Imuse and Senator Monday Okpekholo come from the Edo Central senatorial district.
Uwadia-Igbinigie explained that the reduction in the number of aspirants was encouraged by an advisory committee led by Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, a House of Representatives member.
He assured that the screening process was conducted fairly and transparently, adhering to the party’s guidelines.
The APC’s publicity secretary also reassured all aspirants of a level playing ground and urged them to participate in the screening scheduled by the National Working Committee between February 8 and 9, 2024.
He emphasized the party’s commitment to transparency and equity throughout the election process.
