Asue Ighodalo, the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the September 21, 2024 Edo State election in Nigeria, has filed a N20 billion defamation lawsuit against Senator Adams Oshiomhole.
This legal action comes in response to allegations made by Oshiomhole regarding Ighodalo’s supposed involvement in a fraudulent scheme known as “Planwell,” which allegedly defrauded several Nigerians of their hard-earned funds.
Ighodalo, through his legal team led by Ayo Asala (SAN) & Associates, is seeking not only financial damages but also an immediate and unqualified retraction of the defamatory comments. He has demanded that Oshiomhole issue a public apology, to be aired on at least two national television networks and published in three nationally circulated newspapers.
In a letter from Ighodalo’s lawyers dated September 16, 2024, the PDP candidate stated that the allegations were baseless, false, and malicious, describing them as part of Oshiomhole’s political strategy to tarnish his reputation ahead of the Edo gubernatorial election. The letter reads: “It is our information that at a campaign rally of your party on Saturday, September 14, 2024, you made statements to the effect that our client, Dr. Ighodalo, was associated with or participated in an alleged pyramid scheme known as ‘Planwell’ in which numerous Nigerians were defrauded.”
The PDP candidate added that the accusations are entirely fabricated and intended to boost Oshiomhole’s political standing and his party’s dwindling chances in the upcoming election. According to the letter, Oshiomhole’s comments were broadcast live on television and have since circulated widely on social and electronic media, resulting in significant damage to Ighodalo’s reputation.
“Our client has absolutely no connection with and could never have been involved in any manner whatsoever with the purported ‘Planwell’ scheme with which you have seriously defamed our client’s reputation,” the letter continued.
Ighodalo emphasized his determination to ensure these accusations are addressed, citing concerns from the public following Oshiomhole’s defamatory remarks. The lawsuit also outlines that if Oshiomhole fails to issue a public apology and pay damages, further legal proceedings will be instituted without further notice.
This lawsuit highlights the growing tension between candidates as the Edo State governorship election draws near, with political figures trading accusations in a fiercely contested race.
Related Developments:
- PDP Warns Against Intimidation: PDP officials in Edo State have vowed to resist any form of intimidation or false narratives as the election approaches.
- Ongoing Legal Battles: Several lawsuits have emerged during the heated campaign season, with candidates from different parties accusing one another of defamation and misconduct.
The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for the political landscape in Edo State ahead of the elections on September 21, 2024.
