Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, the Edo State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has stated that the court verdict on the party’s governorship primary election did not remove Asue Ighodalo as the party’s governorship candidate, contrary to what is being reported.

However, the All Progressives Congress Campaign Council has invited Ighodalo to join it in its campaign to the people of the State, while former Deputy Governor Rt Hon Philip Shaibu has stated that he has been vindicated after claiming from the beginning that the PDP did not hold a proper primary election.

According to a statement made by Aziegbemi, the misinformation concerning the expulsion of its candidate was intended to fool the party’s committed members. He stated, “The PDP is aware that certain groups who are concerned about our candidate Dr. Asue Ighodalo’s rising popularity are spreading reports that Dr. Asue Ighodalo’s candidacy has been annulled.

“Let it be on record that the candidature of Dr. Asue Ighodalo as the flag bearer of the party for the 2024 elections remains intact and that the judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja did not in any way affect the candidature of Dr. Asue Ighodalo. We urge our teaming loyal supporters to remain calm and resolute as there is no cause for alarm.“

According to Comrade Orobosa Omo-Ojo, Director of the APC Governorship Campaign Council’s Publicity Committee, the court chose to avoid imposing an unpopular candidate on the people of Edo State. The statement reads, “The news of Mr Asue Ighodalo’s disqualification as the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate has been received by Edo people as relief from the imposition of forgery and the continuation of self-serving governance in our state.”

“The APC, as a progressive party, is calling on Mr. Ighodalo to work with Senator Monday Okpebholo to retake the state and reset it for prosperity. What is more important at this point is the interest of Edo people who are eagerly waiting for solutions that will ensure food security, accessible and affordable healthcare, and a thriving economy.”

Former Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Philip Shaibu, claimed the court’s judgment validated his prior claim that the PDP did not hold a proper primary poll. He informed newsmen on the phone. “I indicated from the start that I have genuine delegates, and they voted for me on the day of the primary.

“I remarked that what transpired that day at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium was like a birthday party or a wedding reception because the people who were supposed to vote were not present, but the court has finally vindicated me. I have been vindicated, and I applaud the judiciary. This triumph is for the Edo people, for democracy, and by God’s might, we shall retake our State from intruders.”

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