APC invites Ighodalo to join forces after PDP primary invalidation

From Tony Osauzo, Benin

Following the invalidation of all processes leading to the nomination of Dr Asue Ighodalo as candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the Edo State governorship election scheduled for September 21st by Justice Iyang Ekwo of Abuja Federal High Court, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has invited Ighodalo to join hands with its candidate, Sen Monday Okpebholo, to retake the state and reset it for prosperity.

In a statement in Benin by the Director, Publicity Committee, APC Campaign Council, Comrade Orobosa Omo-Ojo, JP, the party said, “Earlier today, a Federal High Court, Abuja presided over by Justice Ekwo nullified Edo PDP Governorship primary held on February 22nd, 2024, by Governor Godwin Obaseki’s faction of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

“The news of the disqualification of Mr Asue Ighodalo as the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate has been received by Edo people as relief from imposition of forgery and continuation of self-serving governance in our state.

“APC as a progressive party, is calling on Mr Ighodalo to join hands 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.”

Read also: Edo PDP primary election nullified by Federal High Court

But in a swift reaction, the Chairman of the state chapter of the PDP, Dr Tony Aziegbemi, said Ighodalo’s candidature of the party remained intact.

“The PDP is aware that certain elements who are scared of the soaring popularity of our candidate Dr Asue Ighodalo are going about peddling rumours that the candidature of Dr Asue Ighodalo has been nullified.

“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 judgement of the Federal High Court in Abuja did not in any way affect the candidature of Dr Asue Ighodalo.

“We urge our teeming loyal supporters to remain calm and resolute as there is no cause for alarm,” Dr Aziegbemi said in a press statement.