By Abiola Olawale
The Edo state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) might be witnessing stormy waters as one of the aspirants, Clem Agba, in the just concluded governorship primary election said the votes of the members did not count.
Agba who was the immediate past minister of state, budget and national planning, lost out to Dennis Idahosa, a house of representatives member, in the exercise that was held on Saturday.
The former minister who reacted to the result said the primary election fell short of the minimum standard of democratic elections. According to him, several loyal members of the party were disenfranchised,
Agba, in a statement issued at the late hours of Saturday, also claimed that based on the “authentic” turnout of voters during the exercise, he won the primary election.
The statement reads, “I strongly believe that thousands of loyal party members were disenfranchised. Based on the authentic turnout, we clinched victory. The result so far announced is a ridicule and undermines the principles of democracy and fair play.
“The votes of the people did not count, the processes of election were compromised and the strength and unity of our party greatly undermined.
“While I remain a loyal party member, I will not be part of a process that robs the mass of our loyal party members of their inalienable right to vote.
“What has taken place in Edo State negates all that even our political leaders have taught us over the years about democracy, the will of the people, one man, one vote and justice and fair play.
“I want to thank everyone that has supported me for your unwavering commitment and belief in our vision and qualification. Your passion and dedication have been the driving force behind our campaign, and I am truly grateful.
“As we move forward, remember that our journey is far from over. We will continue to fight for a better future for Edo State, a future where every citizen can thrive and succeed. Our resolve is unbreakable, and our commitment unwavering.”
The New Diplomat reports that the developing situation in the fold of the Edo state chapter of APC suggests a looming crisis.
This is as another candidate Senator Monday Okpebholo, has emerged as the flagbearer of the party’s governorship primary election in the state, on Saturday.
The Returning Officer, Stanley Ugboaja, who announced the results said Okpebholo won the primary election having polled a total of 12,145 votes.
The announcement is contrary to an earlier declaration made by Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo state, who is also the chairman of the APC primary election committee.
The New Diplomat had reported earlier that Uzodimma declared a House of Representatives member, Dennis Idahosa, the winner of the primary election at the Protea Hotel.
However, Ugboaja said he was the right person to announce the result while declaring Okpebholo the winner.
In his words, “I am the right person to declare the results of this primary election but unfortunately I was not allowed to finish the announcement. We will continue the announcement here (Ize-Iyamu residence).
“Having scored the highest number of votes, I hereby declare Senator Okpebholo the winner of the election,” he added.
