The gentleman’s agreement of zoning in Nigeria’s politics has never been put in legislation
hence it has remained just that “a gentleman’s agreement”. Nigerian politicians have all the
variables to usurp this agreement such as majority tribe, Financial and political might. In Edo
2024, PDP for a long time have spoken in favour of Zoning meaning it’s the turn of Edo
Central, Esan. However, the party is now fragmented which has overshadowed their
achievements in the state. The cause of their disagreement dates to 2020 and the
incumbent Governor Godwin Obaseki is now regarded as one who does not keep political
promises. The Governor’s preferred for Edo 2024, Asue Ighodalo who fits the bill as Esan
and technocratic is now struggling to convince the party he will do better, politically, and
economically. That is PDP’s problem.
APC have said they have thrown out zoning but have the Edo people done so? APC also have
too many candidates and nobody fresh in 2024. They are hellbent on taking power from PDP
in Edo State but without sorting out the above issues properly they will not be able to. Both
sides know the terrain in what is shaping out to be a truly remarkable contest. Sen Adams
Oshiomhole is a key player here, but he is not on the ballot. At this moment APC are united,
if they can find the right candidate that offers a balance of technocracy and political
savviness, then add PDP in house fighting, one would say APC have a real good chance of
winning Edo 2024.
