The purportedly conducted PDP primary elections in Edo state is a further reminder of the ugly style of democracy that we practice as a country. The peoples democratic party in the State hit an all time low by organising one of the most uncoordinated and unscrupulous primary elections since 1999.

There were practically parallel primaries in all the local government areas. This led to several aspirants claiming to have emerged victorious. The crescendo of what seem to be the most disorganised party primaries was witnessed in Oredo Local Government Area, which happens to house the ancient Benin kingdom and the State Capital.

Days after the purported party primary, the PDP is yet to announce officially the winners of some of the constituent seats. Nevertheless, the charade of leadership recruitment was greeted by pockets of hooliganism, terror, violence, death, and dubious manipulations which led to impositions of democratic representatives on the people in the most unceremonious manner.

Party faithfuls are keenly looking up to Governor Godwin Obaseki who is the “supreme leader” of the state to steer the party to steady waters. The Governor is expected to be upright and decisive, if not this political imbroglio will open flood gates of deadly litigations which might see the opposition party take back power on a platter in 2023. More so, if the Governor does not take a firm stand on the issues of fairness and lawful conduct of primary elections and emergence of candidates then the insinuation that he is not in charge may cripple the confidence party members have in him.

Godwin Obaseki a man credited for his strong stance against democratic illegality and godfatherism is confronted with a dicey political situation that only upright leaders can handle in consonance with the law.

This uprightness test on the governor will further test his character and the principles he holds dear. The question of whether Godwin Obaseki will be on the good side of history will surely be answered in the coming days depending on his actions and inactions towards the conduct of party primaries and the emergence of candidates.

By JOSEPH IGIEBOR