Benin City, January 15, High Court – As the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal continues in Benin City, Asue Ighodalo, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the September 21 election, has called on the people of Edo to remain resilient and hopeful, emphasizing the party’s confidence in securing justice.
Ighodalo, speaking to the press at the conclusion of Wednesday’s hearing, expressed his belief in the fairness of the tribunal, assuring Edo residents that the legal process would yield a just outcome. The PDP candidate reiterated his vision for the state, pledging to transform Edo into a first-world economy if elected governor.
The PDP, along with Ighodalo, is challenging the results of the controversial election in which the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner. This result has been widely rejected by the PDP and many Edo citizens, both at home and abroad, who insist that Ighodalo and his running mate, Osarodion Ogie, were the rightful victors.
Ighodalo thanked the people of Edo for their unwavering support despite facing intimidation and harassment from supporters of the Okpebholo-led administration. He praised their determination and resilience, particularly in light of the difficult circumstances surrounding the election.
“I want to thank the people of Edo for their massive turnout despite the challenges they faced, including harassment and intimidation,” Ighodalo said. “They have remained steadfast and hopeful, and we continue to draw strength from their support.”
The PDP candidate further expressed his faith in the judiciary, stating, “We are confident that the judiciary will do the right thing, and we remain hopeful as we await the outcome of the tribunal proceedings.”
Ighodalo also vowed to address poverty and tackle issues such as coercion and the rise of political thuggery, which he criticized as a hallmark of the current administration. “If given the mandate, we will eradicate the injustices and ensure that Edo is governed by the rule of law,” he added.
In a concerning development, reports emerged of gunshots near the tribunal venue, allegedly fired by Marvis Osarumwense, also known as Ewewan, a notorious APC-linked thug. The gunman was seen near the court premises before reportedly fleeing the scene in a vehicle believed to be affiliated with the Edo State government.
The tribunal has adjourned the hearing until Friday, January 17, 2025, with legal teams from both parties set to resume proceedings as they continue to pursue justice in the disputed election.
