The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Edo State chapter, has screened candidates for the Edo Central Senatorial District and Ovia Federal Constituency seats ahead of the by-elections on August 16, 2025.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced this date to fill the vacant National Assembly positions.
A five-member Screening Committee, chaired by Prof. Okumoko Tubo Pearce, was appointed by the PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC). Other members include Arc. Chinomso Odoemelan, Inemo Dede, Evelyn Promise, and David Omare.
Candidates for the Edo Central Senatorial seat include John Yakubu, Friday Itulah, Joseph Okojie, and Festus Edogun, while Johnny Ikponmwosa Aikpitanyi is the sole candidate for the Ovia Federal Constituency seat.
Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, welcomed the committee and candidates at the party secretariat in Benin City, emphasising the integrity and transparency of the upcoming primary election.
“The national headquarters of the PDP is the only body statutorily empowered to conduct primaries. The five-man team from Abuja sent to conduct this screening is here with us, and this confirms the authenticity of our secretariat and leadership,” Aziegbemi said.
Following the screening, aspirants expressed satisfaction with the process. Festus Edogun described it as transparent and expressed optimism about securing the party’s ticket.
“I know my people, and they know me. I am confident of victory,” he said.
John Yakubu commended the committee for its professionalism and said the by-election provides a great opportunity for the PDP to reclaim Edo Central, a known party stronghold.
Joseph Okojie and Friday Itulah echoed similar sentiments, citing APC’s alleged misrule and economic hardship as factors that would tilt the electorate toward the PDP.
