- Politics
The Peoples Democratic Party in Edo State has stepped back into the spotlight with the inauguration of its new executive committee, signalling both a renewal of internal strength and a warning shot to the ruling All Progressives Congress. The atmosphere of Saturday’s congress was celebratory, but behind the ceremonial unity lies a clear resolve to confront the Okpebholo administration with sharper opposition than it has faced since assuming office.
At the centre of this renewed push is Barrister Daniel Osa Ogbegie, the newly elected Publicity Secretary, who wasted no time in defining the tone of his office. His words were direct, uncompromising, and laced with the promise of a more combative PDP. Gone, he said, are the days when opposition figures were treated as convenient targets for government propaganda. From now on, every falsehood and half-truth will be met with facts, records, and fierce rebuttals.
Ogbegie is no stranger to political communication. Known as one of the strongest voices of the PDP in recent years, he was at the forefront of the party’s campaign machinery during the 2024 gubernatorial election. As one of the official spokesmen for the party and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, he was visible on virtually every central media platform, both within and outside Nigeria. His style combined forceful advocacy with detailed policy defence, making him a formidable figure in televised debates, radio engagements, and digital campaigns. It was during that election that Ogbegie built a reputation as a resilient communicator who could match the ruling party word for word, while keeping the PDP’s agenda in the spotlight.
Also Read: Edo PDP Inaugurates New Executive, Pledges to Hold Okpebholo Government Accountable
This background explains the assertiveness with which he has now taken on his new role. For months, Governor Okpebholo has spoken confidently of investments and policy initiatives, yet critics argue that much of it remains cloaked in ambiguity. The much-publicised claim of a $250 million investment from Glasgow has already raised eyebrows, with Ogbegie describing it as an embarrassment to the Edo people. Add to this the abandoned projects from the Godwin Obaseki era and lingering questions about transparency in fiscal management, and it becomes clear why the PDP now believes its moment has come.
But Ogbegie did not stop at policy critique. He issued a pointed challenge to his counterparts in government communication, APC spokesman Peter Uwadia and Commissioner Paul Ohonbamu. His message was unmistakable. The insults must end, the politics of gutter language must give way to reasoned debate, and Edo people deserve to see their leaders spar on the substance of governance rather than descend into verbal warfare.
It is a bold declaration, but also a risky one. By setting such a confrontational tone, the PDP’s new publicity machine will either reinvigorate the opposition as a credible voice for accountability or escalate Edo politics into a bitter exchange of words. Either way, the party has made clear that it will not remain silent or subdued.
Saturday’s inauguration was more than an internal ritual of party democracy. It was a statement of intent. And at the centre of it stands a spokesman already tested in the crucible of a fiercely contested election, now promising to channel that same energy into daily opposition politics. The PDP has served notice that it is back, that it will not only oppose but scrutinise, and that the Okpebholo government must brace itself for a far more robust and relentless challenge in the months ahead.
©Truth Live News Political Desk