Politics
Edo Election: Court Rules In Favor Of Ighodalo, Rejects Disqualification Plea
Edo Election: Court Rules In Favor Of Ighodalo, Rejects Disqualification Plea....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In a recent development concerning the Edo State governorship election, the Federal High Court in Abuja has ruled against disqualifying Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate. Justice Obiora Egwuatu delivered the judgement on Wednesday, dismissing a lawsuit filed by PDP gubernatorial aspirant Anselm Ojeizu. The court determined that Ojeizu’s suit, filed prematurely on March 6, did not first utilize the party’s internal dispute resolution mechanisms before seeking judicial intervention.
According to Justice Egwuatu, Ojeizu’s failure to engage with the PDP’s Appeal Panel prior to legal action constituted a breach of the party’s rules, which mandate exhaustion of internal avenues for conflict resolution. The judge emphasized the importance of adhering to such prerequisites, citing precedents established by the Supreme Court in similar cases.
Ighodalo emerged victorious in the PDP primaries on February 22, securing 577 votes and earning the endorsement of Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki. The primary election’s conduct was contested by Ojeizu, who alleged violations of Electoral Act 2022 provisions and party guidelines, including the use of fraudulent delegate lists during the process held at Benin’s Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.
The court’s decision marks a significant development as preparations intensify for the forthcoming gubernatorial election in Edo State.
