The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has praised the Court of Appeal for its decision to reaffirm Dr. Asue Ighodalo as the party’s candidate for the upcoming Edo State Governorship election on September 21, 2024. The court’s ruling, which includes the awarding of costs against the appellants, was described by the PDP as a significant stand against vexatious litigation.
According to the PDP, the Appeal Court’s judgment not only supports the legality of their nomination process but also validates the democratic aspirations of Edo State’s electorate as represented by Dr. Ighodalo’s candidacy.
In a statement signed by Hon. Debo Ologunagba, National Publicity Secretary, the party views the judgment as a landmark ruling that enhances democratic practice and underscores the integrity of their candidate selection.
The statement read in part;
“The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) commends the Court of Appeal for its courage in upholding justice by reaffirming the nomination of Dr. Asue Ighodalo as the candidate of the PDP in the September 21, 2024 Edo State Governorship election.
“The Party says that the award of cost by the Appeal Court against the Appellants in favour of Dr. Asue Ighodalo and other Respondents is an emphatic judicial rebuke against frivolous and vexatious court proceedings aimed at frustrating the outcome of a legally conducted democratic exercise of a political party.
“The PDP describes the judgment as another landmark ruling which further strengthens democratic practice, validates the credibility of PDP nomination process and reinforces the Will and aspiration of the people of Edo State as embodied in the candidature of Dr. Asue Ighodalo.
“Our Party notes that with the verdict of the High Court and reaffirmation by the Appeal Court, both in favour of the PDP and its candidate, it is clear that Dr. Asue Ighodalo was duly and rightfully nominated as candidate; that he has no qualification issues and that the litigations against his candidature were all designed to distract the PDP and frustrate the Aspiration of the people of Edo State.”
The PDP has also reiterated its demand for the APC’s candidate, Monday Okpebholo, to withdraw from the race due to alleged forgery issues surrounding his voter’s card and birth documents.
“The PDP restates its call on the unqualified candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Monday Okpebholo to step down from the race and face the issues of alleged forgery of voter’s card and birth documents which has further imperiled the APC governorship campaign.”
The PDP finally commended the people of Edo State for their steadfast support of Dr. Ighodalo, whom they believe is committed to advancing the state’s development and wellbeing.
“Our Party commends the people of Edo State for standing firmly behind its candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, who has demonstrated commitment, respect, vision and operable roadmap to sustain the wellbeing and development of the people of Edo State on the platform of the PDP.”