The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the 2024 Edo State governorship election, Asue Ighodalo, has announced plans to challenge the verdict of the Edo State tribunal, which upheld Monday Okpebholo’s victory as governor. He stated that he had instructed his legal team to take the case to the Court of Appeal.
“I have, therefore, instructed my legal team to proceed to the Court of Appeal to challenge this decision, which we consider a huge travesty of justice.”
Ighodalo emphasized that the issue was not about him or any individual, but about democracy itself, the right to determine the future freely, and the legacy for future generations. His statement came shortly after the tribunal’s ruling.
A three-member panel led by Justice Wilfred Kpochi had dismissed Ighodalo’s petition, citing lack of merit and inadequate evidence to support claims of non-compliance with the Electoral Act.
Ighodalo called on his supporters and other party members to maintain peace and respect the rule of law in their quest for justice.
“As an avowed democrat, I respect the judiciary as the last hope of the common man, and I urge all of you, our dear good people of Edo State, to remain peaceful, calm and law-abiding in the aftermath of this judgement.”
Despite the verdict, Ighodalo made it clear that this was not the end but the beginning of a greater fight for justice, democracy, and the protection of the people’s mandate, which was freely granted to him and his running mate, Barr. Osarodion Ogie, on the platform of the PDP.
“However, let it be clear: this is not the end of our journey, but the beginning of a greater struggle for justice, democracy, and the sanctity of the people’s mandate freely conferred on my running mate, Barr. Osarodion Ogie and I are on the platform of our great Party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).”
While acknowledging that not everyone might agree with the decision, Ighodalo remained firm in his belief that the rule of law must always be the foundation of democracy.
“While we all may not agree with the verdict, we, however, remain steadfast in our belief that the rule of law must remain the bedrock of our democracy. Our pursuit of justice in this regard is an affirmation of our firm belief that the right of the good people of Edo State to freely choose their leaders through a credible, free and fair electoral process must never be compromised.”
Ighodalo also expressed his gratitude for the support his campaign had received, stating that it had always been about a vision for a prosperous Edo State, not personal ambition.
“From the very beginning, your massive show of support, sincere love and belief in our shared vision for a prosperous Edo State have been the driving force behind this journey.”
He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to the cause.
“For us, it has never been about the realisation of a personal ambition but about our conviction to create a clear Pathway to Prosperity for all Edo People while upholding the foundational values of democracy, justice, and the will of the people. We remain resolute. We remain committed. And we shall not waver in our pursuit of truth and justice.”
