By Milcah Tanimu

The Federal High Court in Abuja has confirmed Dr. Asue Ighodalo as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the 2024 Edo State gubernatorial election.

Justice James Omotosho delivered the ruling, dismissing the case filed by Philip Shaibu, who challenged Ighodalo’s nomination as the PDP’s candidate.

The court affirmed that Ighodalo was duly nominated during the party’s primary election on February 22, 2024, at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City. Ighodalo secured 577 votes, defeating Shaibu and 10 other aspirants.

The court found the plaintiffs’ case lacked merit, as they did not provide sufficient evidence to support their claim that Ighodalo had forged his voter’s card. Additionally, the court ruled that the action was statute-barred and struck it out.

This ruling solidifies Ighodalo’s position as the PDP’s candidate for the upcoming Edo State gubernatorial election, set for later this year. The decision is seen as a significant victory for the party and its candidate as they move forward with their campaign.

Political experts believe this court decision will significantly impact the political landscape in Edo State as the PDP aims to retain the governorship seat in the upcoming election.