Edo Guber: PDP insists black campaign against Ighodalo is futile

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed the setback ahead of the Edo State governorship election on September 21, 2024, insisting that the smear campaign against its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, is a futile effort.

It would be recalled that Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja recently annulled the PDP primaries following a legal challenge (FHC/ABJ/CS/165/2024) filed by disgruntled delegates represented by Kelvin Mohammed.

The court ruled that 378 delegates eligible to vote were unlawfully excluded, citing violations of electoral laws and party guidelines during the primary elections held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin.

Reacting to the ruling, PDP National Public Relations Secretary Debo Ologunagba on Thursday clarified that the court did not nullify Ighodalo’s candidacy. Ologunagba attributed the smear campaign against Ighodalo to his widespread popularity and strong position in the upcoming election.

Also read: Oyo govt condemns vandalism of newly rehabilitated road

However, in a statement on Sunday, Ologunagba said: “The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) insists that the smear campaign and baseless lawsuits are aimed at diverting attention from Dr. Asue Ighodalo, our candidate.”

He warned of a concerted effort by individuals with personal ambitions to tarnish Ighodalo’s image through court battles and media manipulation.

Despite the challenges, Ologunagba stressed the PDP’s confidence in Ighodalo’s candidacy, deeming the smear campaign ineffective. The party urged the judiciary, media and security agencies to remain vigilant against such tactics, calling them a threat to the integrity of democracy.

“The plot against Ighodalo and the people of Edo State has failed,” Ologunagba stressed, underscoring the PDP’s determination to win the upcoming elections despite the odds.

Edo Guber: PDP insists smear campaign against Ighodalo futile first appeared on Latest Nigeria News | Headlines from Ripples Nigeria.