The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has released its final list of cleared aspirants for the July 21, 2025, primaries ahead of the National Assembly bye-elections.
The elections, set for August 16, 2025, will fill vacant seats in Edo Central Senatorial District and Ovia Federal Constituency.
According to a statement by the PDP State Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare, “Three aspirants—John Yakubu, Friday Itulah, and Joe Okojie—have been cleared to contest the senatorial primary for Edo Central.”
Only one person, Johnny Aikpitanyi, was cleared for the Ovia Federal Constituency seat. He will run unopposed as PDP’s candidate.
One hopeful, Festus Edogun, failed to make the cut. He reportedly bought his nomination form from the party’s national secretariat in Abuja. But he was required to show proof of purchase before the appeal panel. The party gave no further update on whether he met the requirement.
The screening held on July 15 at the PDP state secretariat in Benin City. A five-member committee from the PDP National Working Committee handled the process.
The panel was chaired by Prof. Okumoko Tubo Pearce. Chinomso Odoemelan served as secretary. Other members included Inemo Dede, Evelyn Promise, and David Omare.
Certificates and Reactions from Aspirants
The party issued certificates of clearance on July 18 to those deemed qualified.
Aikpitanyi, the sole aspirant from Ovia, hailed the committee’s approach.
“I want to sincerely thank members of the screening committee for their professionalism, fairness, and diligence in discharging their duties,” he said.
He praised the process as “fair and transparent” and said the party was now battle-ready.
“With this clearance, we are set for the task ahead.”
He sounded upbeat about the PDP’s chances in the forthcoming election.
“I’m fully prepared to carry the PDP flag in Ovia, and with the overwhelming support of our people, we will secure victory and ensure the delivery of quality, purposeful representation to our constituents.”
As Yakubu, Itulah, and Okojie head into the senatorial primary, all eyes will be on how the delegates vote.
For more details on Nigeria’s electoral guidelines, visit the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) website.
Rate, Like 👍, Comment💬, share this article, Follow us on our social media handles, and Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
