The political landscape in Edo State is getting fiery ahead of the September 21, 2024 governorship election as Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, takes legal action against Senator Adams Oshiomhole. Ighodalo is demanding a whopping N20 billion in damages over alleged defamatory comments made by the former governor of Edo State and current senator representing Edo North District.
During a campaign rally for the All Progressives Congress (APC) last Saturday in Benin, Oshiomhole accused Ighodalo of being involved in the notorious “PLANWELL” Ponzi scheme, which had swindled numerous Edo residents in the past. Oshiomhole’s claim, made in the heat of the electoral campaign, has sparked public outrage and led Ighodalo to take swift legal action.
Ighodalo, through his legal counsel, Chief Ayo Asala SAN, has categorically denied any involvement in the alleged Ponzi scheme. In a letter titled “Re: Defamatory Statements Made In Respect Of Dr. Asue Ighodalo” and dated September 16, 2024, Ighodalo’s legal team expressed disappointment at Oshiomhole’s baseless accusations, describing them as politically motivated.
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The letter from Ighodalo’s lawyer didn’t mince words, labeling Oshiomhole’s statements as “baseless, unfounded, false, and malicious.” It emphasized that Ighodalo, a respected legal practitioner and corporate leader, has no links whatsoever to the PLANWELL scheme or any fraudulent activity.
“We demand an immediate and unqualified retraction of your defamatory statements and an apology to be broadcast on at least two national TV stations and published in three major newspapers,” the letter reads.
Furthermore, Ighodalo is seeking N20 billion in damages for the harm caused to his reputation, with his lawyer adding that failure to comply with these demands will lead to legal proceedings.
The timing of this lawsuit is significant, with the Edo gubernatorial election just days away. The PDP and APC are locked in a fierce battle for control of the state, and this legal tussle could have major ramifications on the political landscape. Oshiomhole’s comments have already stirred widespread controversy, as Ighodalo’s supporters and public figures rally behind him.
