BY OSE EHEBHA
UROMI – The two incumbent House of Reps members in Edo Central Senatorial District, Hon. Friday Itulah and Hon. Patrick Ikhariale had their hopes of returning to the Federal House of Representatives dashed as they lost out in the primary elections of their party, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The duo of Ikhariale, representing Esan Central, Esan West and Igueben Federal Constituency and Itulah representing Esan South East/Esan North Constituency were aspiring to return to the lower chambers of National Assembly for the third time.
Ikhariale who scored 37 votes, lost to the former council chairman of Esan West Local Government Council, ‘Chief Joe Edionwele who pulled 64 votes, while Itulah got 31 votes to lose to his challenger, Barr. Fergius Ogun who scored 55 votes.
Speaking on his victory, Chief Edionwele remarked that the outcome of the primary election was a reflection of his popularity amongst electorate, and urged on his co-contestants to team up with him to secure victory for the party during the general election.
He described the conduct of the primary as peaceful, free, fair and credible, adding that outcome epitomized democracy.
A former governor of Edo State and current chairman of Law Reform Commission, Senator Osereimen Osunbor who was one of the delegates hailed the peaceful conduct of the election, noting that its transparency brightens the party’s chances at the general elections.
Barr. Ferguis Ogun who clinched the PDP ticket in Esan South East/Esan North East Constituency eulogized the party members for displaying true democratic character.
