The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Edo State, Asue Ighodalo, has rejected the election tribunal verdict affirming Monday Okpebholo as governor, vowing to challenge the judgment at 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 said in a statement.
The three-member tribunal panel led by Justice Wilfred Kpochi had dismissed Ighodalo’s petition due to lack of merit and failure to present competent witnesses to substantiate claims of electoral violations.
“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,” Ighodalo stated.
Calling for calm among supporters, he added: “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.”
The PDP candidate emphasized his commitment to pursuing legal redress: “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).”
Ighodalo maintained faith in the judicial process, stating: “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.”
The businessman-turned-politician thanked supporters, saying: “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: “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.”
The appeal process begins as political tensions rise in Edo State, with security agencies on alert to maintain peace during the legal proceedings.
