Federal High Court Nullifies Edo PDP Gubernatorial Primary Election

Abuja, Nigeria – In a significant ruling today, the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Ekwo, declared that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) nomination processes were non-compliant with its own constitution. The primary election, held on February 22, 2024, was annulled due to the unlawful exclusion of 378 delegates who were supposed to participate.

The suit, marked THC/ABJ/CS/165/2024, was brought forward by Hon. Kelvin Mohammed in a representative capacity. Justice Ekwo determined that the primary election, conducted at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin, grossly violated both the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022 and the PDP Guidelines.

The court’s decision has sparked varied reactions, with some expressing support for the decision and others seeing it as a setback for the PDP in Edo State. Asue Ighodalo, who emerged as the PDP’s candidate from the primary, has not yet commented on the court’s ruling.

The PDP has been facing internal turmoil in recent months, with disputes over the conduct of its primary elections in several states. The party’s leadership has been accused of failing to follow its own rules and regulations, leading to legal challenges from aggrieved members.

The Edo State governorship election is scheduled for September 24, 2024. With the PDP’s primary election now nullified, it remains to be seen how the party will proceed in selecting a new candidate. The ruling has also raised questions about the party’s ability to manage its internal affairs and conduct free and fair elections.

The court’s decision is a reminder of the importance of following due process and adhering to party rules and regulations. It also highlights the need for political parties to ensure transparency and fairness in their internal processes. As the Edo State governorship election draws near, all eyes will be on the PDP and its ability to resolve its internal issues and present a united front.