The Court of Appeal in Abuja has dismissed an appeal challenging the candidacy of Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate for Edo State. This decision clears the way for Dr. Ighodalo to move forward as the PDP’s flag bearer in the forthcoming election.
COURT DECISION
The appeal, filed by Arthur Osene and Anslem Ojezua, was thrown out on the grounds of being statute-barred. Justice Barka upheld the lower court’s ruling, explaining that the case was brought outside the constitutionally mandated time frame.
Justice Barka noted, “Once the constitution provides a time for doing a thing, it must be done within that time. The issue is a pre-election matter under section 285(9) of the constitution. A calculation here renders the action above the prescribed 14 days.”
The court also dismissed allegations of Permanent Voter Card (PVC) forgery, stating that there was no evidential basis to prove forgery beyond reasonable doubt. Justice Barka highlighted that a voter’s card is not a constitutional requirement for running for governor.
FINES AND IMPLICATIONS
The court awarded a fine of ₦3 million against the appellants for bringing the case. With the legal challenges resolved, Dr. Ighodalo is now confirmed as the PDP candidate for the September 21st governorship election.