APC in Edo state releases screening guidelines and date for primary election

TRACKKNG___The All Progressive Congress in Edo State has released screening guidelines ahead of the gubernatorial primary in the state.

The party disclosed that the six aspirants who have completed and submitted the parties expression of interest form and nomination form will see their applications undergo rigorous screening process to mitigate against any lapses which have been experienced in the past that cost the party after winning the general election.

The six aspirants to be screened are Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, H.E. Godwin Obaseki, Rt. Hon. Dr. Pius Odubu, Engr. Chris Ogiemwonyi, Hon. Osaro Obazee and Hon. Matthew Aigbuhuenze Iduoriyekemwen.

In some part of the message released by the party’s National publicity secretary, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu on its official social media page, he wrote,”In our bid to ensure due diligence and transparency in the screening exercise and learning from our recent shocking experiences, we are determined to avoid any lapses in the process.”

“Therefore, we are making the submitted information and documents of the governorship aspirants available to our party members and the public for verification of claims and to support the screening panel with information or any objection to the claims contained in the submission by the aspirants.

“Consequently, the various submissions will be displayed at the Party’s National Secretariat in Abuja and in Benin City, the Edo State capital from Monday 8th to Tuesday 9th June, 2020 for claims and objections.

The primary has been slated to hold on Monday 22nd June, 2020, while Election Appeal has been slated for Wednesday 24th June, 2020.

The APC primaries in Edo State has been filled with countless drama between the parties two main contenders Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu and incumbent governor, Godwin Obaseki and political analyst have predicted that either of the two will end up becoming the parties flag bearer for the gubernatorial election.

Meanwhile, Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, on Thursday signed a new gazette banning political or social gathering involving more than 20 persons in the state without his direct approval.

Obaseki also approved the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, the State capital as the only facility for any political party desirous of gathering for the purpose of primary elections.

The state government said the gazette was a product of an epidemiological study which predicted that COVID-19 infections in the state would peak around June 28, 2020.

Some political actors have alleged that this move is an attempt to cripple the campaign of the governors opposition in the state.