Court Ruling does not Invalidate Primary Results, Says Edo State PDP’s Campaign Organisation
2 min read
By Joy Richardson
In a dramatic twist, the Edo State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Campaign Organisation has affirmed that the Federal High Court ruling in Abuja does not nullify the primary election outcome that crowned Dr. Asue Ighodalo and Osarodion Ogie Esq. as the party’s gubernatorial candidates.
Reacting swiftly to the controversial ruling, the PDP described the judgment as “an unexpected development that defies established Appellate Courts’ precedents.”
“Today, July 4, 2024, the Federal High Court in Abuja, under the gavel of Hon. Justice Ekwo, delivered a judgment in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/165 of 2024 (HON. KELVIN MOHAMMED & 2 ORS VS INEC & 3 ORS),” the PDP Campaign Organisation revealed. “The suit was instigated by individuals claiming they were legitimate delegates unjustly excluded from the selection process of our flag bearer for the forthcoming Edo State gubernatorial elections.”
In an astonishing turn, Justice Ekwo ruled that the matter of ward congresses and delegate selection is a judicial issue, warranting court intervention—a stance starkly opposed to a series of higher court decisions that classify such matters as internal party affairs beyond judicial scrutiny.
The PDP Campaign Organisation asserted, “History shows that this specific court has had similar rulings overturned by higher courts, reinforcing the principle that ward congresses and delegate choices fall strictly within party jurisdiction.”
Confident in their stance, the PDP stated, “We are prepared to challenge this ruling at the appellate level, confident that it will not withstand the scrutiny of a higher court. Steps for an appeal are already in motion.”
Crucially, the organisation clarified, “The claim and resulting judgment did not, in any capacity, invalidate or contest the results of the party primaries held on February 22, 2024, which confirmed Dr. Asue Ighodalo and Osarodion Ogie Esq. as our candidates.”
In light of rampant speculation and misinformation, the PDP urged, “Members, supporters, and the people of Edo State should remain composed and disregard the machinations of those spreading false narratives. The truth will emerge with the official release of the judgment.”
