Obaseki's Final Act: Edo PDP Caretaker Committee Inaugurated as Governorship Tenure Winds Down

In a significant political move, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has inaugurated a caretaker committee for the state's chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), just days before the end of his tenure as governor. This development comes amidst ongoing efforts to reclaim what the party alleges to be a "stolen mandate" in the recent gubernatorial election.

 Key Details of the Caretaker Committee

- **Chairman**: Dr. Tony Aziegbemi

- **Secretary**: Hon. Henry Duke Tenebe

- **Other Members**: Harrison Omagbon, Fidel Igenegbale, Chris Nehikhare, Tony Anenih Jnr, Anthony Okosun, Segun Saiki, Adezat Kuburat Ibrahim, and Augustine Edosomwan

Committee's Mandate and Duration

The caretaker committee, established under Section 29(2)(b) of the PDP's Constitution (2017 as amended), is tasked with managing the party's affairs in Edo State. Their tenure is set for a maximum of 90 days or until a new Executive Committee is elected.

Governor Obaseki's Stance

During the inauguration at the PDP Secretariat in Benin City, Governor Obaseki expressed confidence in the party's ability to reclaim its mandate. He alleged that the All Progressives Congress (APC) had stolen the party's victory in the September 21 governorship poll.

Looking Ahead

1. **Legal Battle**: The PDP is preparing for a legal challenge to contest the election results.

2. **Party Unity**: Obaseki called for cohesion within the party as they pursue their case through judicial processes.

3. **Financial Concerns**: The governor raised concerns about potential misuse of state funds by the incoming administration, mentioning borrowings for the inauguration.

This move by Governor Obaseki, coming at the twilight of his administration, underscores the ongoing political tensions in Edo State and sets the stage for continued contestation of the recent election results.