Members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State showed remarkable commitment on Saturday as they turned out in large numbers to participate in the party’s ward congresses, despite a heavy downpour that lasted for hours.
The congresses, which held simultaneously across the state’s 192 wards, were aimed at electing new ward executives and delegates. Party faithful defied the weather, gathering at various polling venues as early as 7:30 a.m., demonstrating resilience and loyalty to the PDP.
At Oredo Wards I, II, and III in Benin City, where journalists monitored the exercise, the process was peaceful, well-organized, and highly attended. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm as members queued patiently to cast their votes.
The exercise was supervised by the PDP State Caretaker Committee Chairman, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, who was joined by officials from the Ward Congress Electoral Committee sent from the party’s national headquarters in Abuja.
Speaking after the exercise, Dr. Aziegbemi commended the massive turnout, describing it as a clear sign of the PDP’s growing strength in Edo.
“The ward congresses were very peaceful. Members of the PDP were vibrant, very active, and elected the 17-member executives in the wards we attended,” he noted.
He admitted that the heavy rainfall initially raised doubts about participation but was pleasantly surprised by the determination of party members.
“I was jittery at first, not knowing what to expect, but I was moved by the enthusiasm. We think PDP is rising, and we believe we will give the APC a run for their money,” Aziegbemi added.
The caretaker chairman also expressed confidence that dissatisfaction with the current government, both at the federal and state levels, would give the PDP an edge in reclaiming Edo in the 2027 elections.
Chairman of the PDP Ward Congress Electoral Committee, Mr. Tariga Tulagha, also praised the conduct of members throughout the exercise.
“We went out to conduct elections for officers and delegates across all wards, and so far, it has been peaceful with full compliance with the law. Despite the rain, people turned out massively, and we are impressed,” he said.
What This Means for Edo Politics
The peaceful congresses and impressive turnout reflect not only the organizational strength of the PDP but also the readiness of its members to position the party as a formidable force ahead of future elections. With Edo politics heating up, the resilience of PDP members may play a decisive role in shaping the political landscape come 2027.
