Okpebholo hails court verdict nullifying Ighodalo candidacy – TrendyNewsReporters

“Edo Guber: Okpebholo hails court verdict nullifying Ighodalo’s candidacy

Senator Monday Okpebholo, the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming Edo State elections, has lauded the Federal High Court ruling that invalidated the primaries of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which had Asue Ighodalo as its candidate.

The court ruling, delivered on Thursday in Abuja, declared the February 22, 2024 primary elections null and void due to the unlawful exclusion of 378 delegates. The ruling by Justice Inyang Edem Ekwo noted that the PDP violated both the Electoral Act 2022 and its own guidelines during the primary elections held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin.

In a statement issued by Senator Okpebholo’s campaign office, the APC candidate described the PDP as a “lawless and dysfunctional political party” incapable of managing its own internal affairs. He believes the court verdict indicates the superiority of the APC in the upcoming elections and assures that the interests of the people will be paramount.

Okpebholo urged Ighodalo to withdraw from the race, citing the “authoritarian and undemocratic” nature of the PDP, exemplified by the actions of Governor Godwin Obaseki. He highlighted the failed policies of the PDP in Edo State, including insecurity, unemployment, sectarianism, floods, poor road conditions and disregard for traditional institutions, predicting a disastrous outcome for the party in the upcoming elections.

“I welcome the court’s verdict, which has saved the people of Edo from further suffering. The so-called PDP primaries were a farce, far from democratic principles. With only two months to go to the elections, the party remains in chaos, unable to organize its affairs.

“I call on the people of Edo to rally behind me and the APC to restore the lost glory of our state. Our administration is committed to reviving the good old days. Since the end of Senator Adams Oshiomhole’s term as governor, our people have had little reason to celebrate. That will change in September when the people regain power through elections.

“Edo State has been marginalized for too long, as evidenced by the neglect we have suffered. We must reconnect our state to the center and reclaim our legitimate benefits. We are optimistic.

“This court verdict exposes the chaotic nature of the PDP, unfit to lead our beloved state. With the APC, I assure you of a better future. The best is yet to come. God bless you all!”