Asue Ighodalo, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the 2024 Edo State governorship election, has vowed to challenge the recent tribunal verdict that upheld the election of Governor Monday Okpebholo.
Reacting to the decision, Ighodalo announced plans to appeal the ruling, describing the tribunal’s judgment as a serious miscarriage of justice.
“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.”
A three-member tribunal panel led by Justice Wilfred Kpochi had dismissed Ighodalo’s petition, citing insufficient evidence and lack of credible witnesses to support claims of electoral irregularities and non-compliance with the Electoral Act.
In a statement released hours after the verdict, Ighodalo emphasized that the issue at stake goes beyond personal ambition, insisting it is about protecting democratic values.
“This is not about me or any single individual; it is about the very essence of democracy, the preservation of our collective right to freely determine our future, and the legacy we leave for generations unborn.”
He called on PDP members and his supporters to remain peaceful and law-abiding as the legal process continues.
“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.”
Reaffirming his determination to pursue justice, Ighodalo stated: “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 on the platform of our great Party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).”
Ighodalo concluded by thanking supporters and promising to remain steadfast in the fight for a better Edo State.
“We remain resolute. We remain committed. And we shall not waver in our pursuit of truth and justice.”
