The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the 2024 Edo State governorship election, Asue Ighodalo, has announced plans to appeal the Edo State tribunal’s verdict, which affirmed Monday Okpebholo as governor.
“I have instructed my legal team to take this matter to the Court of Appeal to challenge what we consider a gross injustice,” Ighodalo stated in a message released hours after the tribunal’s decision.
“This is not about me or any individual; it is about the very foundation of our democracy, the preservation of our collective right to determine our future, and the legacy we leave for generations to come,” he added.
The three-member tribunal panel, led by Justice Wilfred Kpochi, dismissed Ighodalo’s petition, citing a lack of merit and failure to present competent witnesses to substantiate claims of non-compliance with the Electoral Act.
In his response, Ighodalo urged supporters and party members to remain peaceful and pursue justice through the rule of law.
“As a committed democrat, I respect the judiciary as the last hope of the common man, and I call on the good people of Edo State to remain peaceful, calm, and law-abiding in the aftermath of this judgment,” he said.
“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 bestowed upon me and my running mate, Barr. Osarodion Ogie, under the banner of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).”
He further emphasized that while the verdict may not be popular, their commitment to the rule of law remains unwavering. “Though we may not agree with this decision, we remain steadfast in our belief that the right of Edo people to choose their leaders through a credible, free, and fair electoral process must never be compromised,” he stated.
Ighodalo also expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from his supporters, saying, “From the very beginning, your immense support, sincere love, and belief in our shared vision for a prosperous Edo State have been the driving force behind this journey.”
“For us, it has never been about personal ambition but about our dedication to creating a clear Pathway to Prosperity for all Edo people while upholding the foundational values of democracy, justice, and the will of the people,” he concluded.
“We remain resolute. We remain committed. And we shall not waver in our pursuit of truth and justice.”
