In a landmark decision that has further solidified the political landscape in Edo State, the Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja has reaffirmed Asue Ighodalo as the rightful Governorship Candidate of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) for the upcoming September 21st election. This ruling came in a unanimous judgement delivered by Justice U. A Musali in the case marked CA/ABJ/CV/763/2024, which saw the PDP pitted against Hon. Kevin Mohammed and five others.
The Court meticulously reviewed the details surrounding the contentious PDP primaries held on February 22 in Edo State, where Dr. Asue Ighodalo emerged as the party's candidate. After examining the circumstances, the Appeal Court concluded that the primaries were conducted in a valid and lawful manner, thereby affirming Ighodalo's candidacy.
In its ruling, the Court emphasized that the plaintiffs in the lower court, who appeared before Justice Ekwo J, were merely delegates and not aspirants. This distinction proved pivotal, as the Court ruled that the matter fell squarely within the internal affairs of the PDP. As delegates, the plaintiffs were found to lack the necessary legal standing (locus standi) to bring forth the suit, rendering the lower court without jurisdiction to hear the case.
This judgement has not only quelled the internal disputes within the PDP but also reinforced the authority of party mechanisms in determining their candidates without undue interference from non-aspirant members. The Court’s decision is seen as a strong endorsement of the processes employed by the PDP in selecting its flag bearers, setting a precedent for future intra-party disputes.
As the election date draws closer, this ruling undoubtedly clears the path for Dr. Asue Ighodalo as he prepares to lead the PDP into the gubernatorial race in Edo State. For more updates and in-depth analysis, stay tuned to Abuja Network News.
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