Tension and speculation gripped Edo State as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) released its list of candidates for the forthcoming September 21 governorship election, with the notable absence of Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu’s name raising eyebrows.
The INEC list, unveiled recently, featured candidates from 17 political parties set to contest the pivotal election. However, the omission of Shaibu’s name fueled curiosity and ignited discussions across the state.
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Among the prominent figures listed were Ighodalo Asuerinme of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Okpebholo Monday of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP).
Additional candidates included Osirame Edeipo of the Boot Party (BP), Enabulele Bright of the Accord Party (AP), and Obazele Paul Agbone of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Notable mentions also went to Key Ndidi of the People Redemption Party (PRP) and Okungbowa Paul Ovbokhan of the Young Progressive Party (YPP).
Uwaifo Osaro emerged as the governorship candidate of the Action Alliance (AA), while Aner Abdullai Aliu represented the Social Democratic Party (SDP). New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) fielded Azena Azemhe Friday, while Osifo Isiah stood as the candidate for the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA).
Furthermore, Ugiagbe Odaro Syvelster represented the All People Movement (APM), Areleogbe Amos Osalumese stood for the All Peoples Party (APP), and Akhime Kingson Afere represented the Action Democratic Party (ADP). Additionally, Udoh Obersifo David was listed as the candidate for the African Action Congress (AAC), while Akhalamhe Amiemenoghena represented the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).
Speaking on the unveiling of the candidates’ particulars, Timidi Wariowei, the state’s INEC head of voters education and publicity, reiterated that the process was conducted in accordance with electoral laws. He emphasized that both political parties and the general public could now review the profiles of the candidates and their running mates.
As Edo gears up for a significant electoral showdown, the absence of Shaibu’s name raises questions and adds an intriguing dimension to the unfolding political landscape in the state.
