The first gathering of the Council, chaired by Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State, was held in Abuja. During this inaugural meeting, a strong statement was made by Fintiri in reaction to the judgment of Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja, delivered earlier in the week. This judgment shook the political party by annulling the results of the primary election which saw the victory of Ighodalo as party candidate.
Fintiri called the decision a “temporary setback” and said the party would appeal the decision. He stressed the importance of electoral victory in the political field, affirming that in an election, there is no second place, no half-measures: you win or you lose. Despite this setback, he expressed confidence that the court’s decision would not hold up in the Court of Appeal. He urged party members not to be discouraged and redouble their efforts for electoral victory.
The PDP National Legal Adviser, Kamarudeen Adebayo, also encouraged council members to remain focused in the face of the court ruling. He stressed that the CTC judgment did not nullify the PDP primary election as was initially perceived. Adebayo recalled that the Supreme Court had already ruled that issues related to delegates were the internal affairs of political parties.
Despite legal hurdles, candidate Ighodalo showed his resolve by visiting 192 districts to seek support from voters. His commitment to making Edo a prosperous state is unquestionable and he can count on the support of influential political figures like former Governor Chief Lucky Igbinedion to carry out his mission.
In conclusion, the PDP Council remains united and determined to win the upcoming election hands down. The confidence and solidarity displayed by the members of the council demonstrate that victory is possible despite the obstacles. Ighodalo displays an ambitious vision for the future of Edo, promising to make the state a model to follow. With everyone’s support, the party is ready to meet this challenge with determination.