The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has released the final list of aspirants cleared to contest its upcoming primaries scheduled for July 21, 2025, ahead of the National Assembly bye-elections in Edo Central Senatorial District and Ovia Federal Constituency.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Publicity Secretary of the state caretaker committee, Chris Nehikhare, three aspirants—John Yakubu, Friday Itulah, and Joe Okojie—have been cleared to participate in the senatorial primary for Edo Central. In Ovia Federal Constituency, only one aspirant, Johnny Aikpitanyi, was cleared and will proceed unopposed as the party’s sole candidate.
One aspirant, Festus Edogun, was not cleared to contest for the Edo Central Senatorial District ticket. The party stated that Edogun purchased the nomination form at the PDP national headquarters in Abuja but was required to present proof of purchase to the appeal committee. No further update was provided on the outcome of that appeal.
The screening of aspirants was conducted on July 15, 2025, at the PDP state secretariat in Benin City. A five-member panel constituted by the PDP National Working Committee oversaw the exercise.
The panel was chaired by Prof. Okumoko Tubo Pearce, with Chinomso Odoemelan serving as secretary. Other members of the panel included Inemo Dede, Evelyn Promise, and David Omare.
Certificates of clearance were issued to qualified aspirants on July 18 at the state party secretariat.
Speaking after receiving his certificate, Aikpitanyi acknowledged the work of the screening panel and described the process as fair and transparent.
“I want to sincerely thank members of the screening committee for their professionalism, fairness, and diligence in discharging their duties,” he said. “With this clearance, we are set for the task ahead.”
He also expressed confidence in his candidacy, stating, “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.”
The bye-elections for both constituencies are scheduled to hold on August 16, 2025.
