APC bows to pressure, replaces Uzodimma as chairman

Following the controversy that trailed Saturday’s governorship primary in Edo State, the ruling All Progressives Congress has removed Governor Hope Uzodimma as Chairman of the Elections Committee.

The Imo State governor was replaced with his counterpart from Cross River State, Bassey Otu, who was formerly the deputy chairman of the seven-member committee.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the APC National Organising Secretary, Sulaiman Argungu.

Argungu disclosed that Otu has now been saddled with the responsibility of conducting the re-run poll slated for Thursday, February 22.

Other members of the Primary Election Committee include former Osun State deputy governor, Mrs Titilayo Laoye-Tomori; APC’s flagbearer in the Plateau State 2023 governorship election, Nentanwe Goshwe; Umar Musa; Lawan Garba and Rabiu Suleiman who will serve as the Secretary.

The changes were made a few hours after four leading aspirants called for Uzodimma’s replacement.

Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, Chief Lucky Imasuen, Senator Monday Okpebholo and General Charles Airhiavbere (retd.) said they no longer trust his ability to conduct a free and fair election following the controversy that trailed Saturday’s poll.

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