APC forces Hinder Vibrant NDC Tickets In Edo

A Socio- Cultural group in Edo Central Senatorial district under the umbrella of Concerned Esan Central leaders, has alleged that there was a coordinated plot by external political forces and internal party actors to frustrate the emergence of a prominent aspirant of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the House of Representatives seat in Esan Central, Esan West and Igueben Federal Constituency, Mr. Emmanuel Ogbidi.

Addressing journalists today, the Spokesperson for the group, Charles Omorawo, claimed that intelligence at their disposal suggests that influential figures within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have identified Ogbidi as a strong contender capable of mounting a serious electoral challenge in the constituency.

He alleged that this assessment has triggered moves to ensure that a less competitive candidate secures the NDC ticket ahead of the elections instead of Emmanuel Ogbidi.

According to him, "Individuals linked to the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo are working in collaboration with certain dissenting elements within the NDC to influence the party’s candidate selection process.

He further claimed that the alleged strategy includes preventing the party’s ticket from going to Esan Central Local Government Area, which is also the governor’s home base. He argued that such an outcome could shift political attention and diminish the governor’s influence during the election period.

“The calculation is simple, they prefer a weak candidate who will not pose any serious challenge to the APC. A credible and popular candidate would make the contest highly competitive.”

" Their plan is to present a weak aspirant of over 60 years from Esan West who cannot win his ward as he is without political presence in his ward" .

Charles Omorawo also disclosed that a senior political appointee in the state government had recently approached Ogbidi, urging him to align with the preferences of certain NDC senatorial leaders. He noted that the position presented during that engagement later mirrored views expressed by some party leaders, reinforcing their concerns about external interference in the party’s internal affairs.

He said his party's suspicions deepened following a meeting with a national leader of the NDC, who reportedly emphasized the importance of presenting youthful and dynamic candidates capable of broadening the party’s electoral appeal.

Highlighting the political credentials of their preferred aspirant, they pointed out that the growing support base to years of activism and advocacy on key issues affecting residents of Edo State has endeared Ogbidi to the hearts of the electorates citing his involvement in campaigns against the suspension of elected local government chairmen, advocacy for students detained after protests over insecurity in Ekpoma, and participation in civil society actions addressing electricity supply and governance challenges amongst others.

“These efforts have earned him widespread grassroots support,” he said. “For nearly two decades, he has stood with ordinary citizens, defending their interests without holding public office. If given the mandate, he will deliver effective representation, attract federal projects, and amplify the voices of our people.”

He warned that any attempt to impose a candidate through undue influence could undermine internal democracy within the NDC and weaken the party’s prospects in the constituency.

He therefore called on party stakeholders to ensure a transparent and credible selection process, stressing that only a fair primary would position the NDC for success in the forthcoming elections.