The Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment by Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja has clarified that the primary election producing Asue Ighodalo as the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was not invalidated. The judgment, which did not pronounce on the validity of the candidatures of Ighodalo and his running mate, Osarodion Ogie, has brought clarity to the situation.
Residents of Ighodalo’s Ewohimi community in Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo State have vowed to support him in the upcoming September 21 governorship election. Meanwhile, the Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) expressed confidence in winning the 2024 governorship election, attributing their optimism to the apparent disarray within the PDP.
Court Ruling and Context
The court case, FHC/ABJ/CS/165/2024, involved three aggrieved ad-hoc delegates—Kelvin Mohammed, Gabriel Okoduwa, and Ederaho Osagie—who sued the PDP over their exclusion from the February 22 primary election. The court ordered their inclusion and acknowledged that the primary election did not comply with Sections 82 of the Electoral Act, 2022, and the PDP’s constitution. However, the judgment did not invalidate the results or question the candidacy of Ighodalo and Ogie.
Statements from Key Figures
Adams Oshiomhole, leader of the APC in Edo State, denied allegations that the crisis in the PDP was orchestrated by the APC, stating it was an internal issue within the PDP. He emphasized that the APC had no role in the PDP’s internal disputes, which have led to divisions within the ruling party.
Abubakar Momoh, Minister of Niger Delta Development, emphasized the APC’s strength in Edo North and Central Senatorial Districts and projected the South Senatorial District as the primary battleground. He expressed confidence in the APC’s chances, citing the party’s ability to attract supporters disillusioned with the PDP’s internal conflicts.
Community Support for Ighodalo
Residents of Ewohimi community have expressed their support for Ighodalo, citing his contributions to the community’s development. An indigene, Mr. Odion Samson, highlighted Ighodalo’s achievements in the private sector and governance, expressing confidence in his ability to lead the state. The community’s commitment to delivering block votes underscores their belief in Ighodalo’s potential as governor.
The judgment and subsequent reactions have set the stage for a competitive governorship election in Edo State, with significant local and political implications. As the election approaches, all eyes will be on the candidates and their ability to navigate the evolving political landscape.
