In the turbulent landscape of Edo State politics, the recent gubernatorial primaries held by the APC have laid bare the deep-seated fissures within the party. The process, initially hailed for its transparency, soon unraveled into a quagmire of controversy, culminating in the disenfranchisement of Rt Hon Dennis Idahosa.
The primaries, conducted on February 17th, witnessed a significant turnout of APC members, reflecting a widespread show of support for various aspirants vying for the party's ticket. Among them, Dennis Idahosa emerged as the triumphant candidate, his victory seemingly endorsed by the party's grassroots base.
However, the jubilation surrounding Idahosa's win was short-lived. In a surprising twist, the party's National Working Committee (NWC) abruptly declared the primaries inconclusive, citing unspecified reasons. This abrupt reversal of fortune raised eyebrows and fueled speculation about ulterior motives at play.
Subsequently, a second round of primaries was orchestrated, marked by allegations of pre-determined outcomes and backroom dealings. In this orchestrated scenario, Senator Monday Okpebholo, representing Edo Central, emerged victorious, effectively nullifying Idahosa's earlier declared triumph.
The aftermath of this contentious process laid bare the fault lines within the party, with accusations of favoritism, godfatherism, and regional politics coming to the fore. Idahosa's age, a mere 43 years, became a focal point of contention, overshadowing his proven track record and competence as a seasoned politician.
The irony of the situation was not lost on observers. Accusations of disloyalty to Adams Oshiomhole were juxtaposed with claims of his endorsement of Idahosa, further muddying the waters of party politics. The age-old narrative of 'youth versus experience' reared its head, as older politicians dismissed Idahosa as a political novice unfit for governance.
Amidst the cacophony of voices within the party, Dennis Idahosa's voice resonated as a beacon of hope for the APC in Edo South. His proven ability to connect with grassroots networks and secure votes from two local governments positioned him as a formidable contender in the electoral arena. However, his sidelining in favor of more established candidates underscored the party's reluctance to embrace change and youthful dynamism.
As the APC grapples with its worst internal crisis in Edo State, the repercussions of Idahosa's disenfranchisement loom large. The party finds itself at a crossroads, torn between the old guard and the emerging generation of leaders. The injustice done to Idahosa serves as a sobering reminder of the perils of internal discord and the urgent need for unity and strategic decision-making within the party ranks.
In the face of adversity, the APC must heed the lessons of its past and chart a path forward that prioritizes merit over political expediency. The road ahead may be fraught with challenges, but it is only through unity and collective action that the party can hope to reclaim its footing and regain the trust of the electorate in Edo State.