The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Thursday reacted to the nullification of the party’s governorship election, insisting that Asue Ighodalo is its flagbearer.
Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja invalidated the February 2024 election that declared Ighodalo the winner, citing the unlawful exclusion of 378 delegates who were eligible to vote in the primary.
However, the party reiterated that the Lagos-based lawyer continues to be its flagbearer for the upcoming September 21 governorship election in Edo State.
“Let it be on record that the candidature of Dr Asue Ighodalo as the flag bearer of the party for the 2024 elections remains intact and that the judgement of the Federal High court in Abuja did not in any way affect the candidature of Dr Asue Ighodalo,” Edo PDP Chairman, Dr Tony Aziegbemi, said in a statement shortly after the court ruling.
Peddling Rumours
The party attributed the spread of rumors about its candidate to certain individuals whom it accused of fearing Ighodalo’s popularity.
While not disclosing the identities of these individuals, the PDP urged its members to stay calm, reassuring them that there is no reason to be concerned about the situation.
“The PDP is aware that certain elements who are scared of the soaring popularity of our candidate Dr Asue Ighodalo are going about peddling rumours that the candidature of Dr Asue Ighodalo has been nullified.
“We urge our teaming loyal supporters to remain calm and resolute as there is no cause for alarm.”
PDP’s Fate Unknown
With the nullification of the PDP’s governorship primary election, the party’s future remains uncertain.
It is unclear whether the party will appeal the judgment to overturn the order of the Federal High Court in Abuja.