Edo Election Tribunal: Asue Ighodalo Reaffirms Commitment to Reclaiming Mandate
Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the Edo State governorship race, has reiterated his belief in the judicial process while expressing gratitude to the people of Edo as the tribunal proceedings concerning the contentious September 2024 election continue. Speaking to journalists outside the court on Wednesday, Ighodalo reassured his supporters and condemned any attempts to undermine the legal process through intimidation.
“We have full faith in the judiciary, and we are confident the right decision will be made. Our mission is clear—reclaiming our mandate and working for the well-being of Edo State,” Ighodalo stated. “We are committed to eradicating poverty, ending fear, and unleashing the state’s vast potential.”
Ighodalo also thanked Edo citizens for their continued support over the past three months. “I’m deeply grateful to the people of Edo State for their overwhelming support during the election and for standing firm despite the challenges,” he said. “Even in the face of intimidation, they have held on to hope, trusting that we will eventually reclaim our mandate.”
The candidate also addressed recent unsettling events surrounding the tribunal, including a violent incident outside the courthouse. “These acts of aggression are designed to distract us from our goal,” Ighodalo remarked, referring to a masked gunman who opened fire near the courthouse shortly before the session began. The gunman, who fled the scene, was captured in footage that spread quickly on social media.
In another incident, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) conducted a raid on a Benin hotel where PDP witnesses were reportedly staying, escalating tensions further. While the EFCC has confirmed the raid, it denied any political motivations. However, PDP officials have accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of using state power to intimidate witnesses and derail the tribunal’s work.
Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the PDP Caretaker Committee, strongly condemned these actions, asserting that they were part of an orchestrated plan by the APC to disrupt the legal proceedings. “The APC is resorting to violence and state apparatus to hinder our case. This level of aggression is unacceptable,” Aziegbemi said.
Ighodalo and the PDP leadership had anticipated such tactics but remained focused on their primary goal. “While we expected attempts to provoke chaos, we never anticipated such extreme measures, including masked gunmen and witness harassment,” he said. “The APC must be held accountable for these actions.”
Despite the challenges, Ighodalo remains optimistic. “We will not be distracted by these attempts to sideline our cause. We are determined to see this process through and secure the mandate the people of Edo State entrusted to us,” he added.
Looking ahead, Ighodalo shared his vision for a prosperous future for Edo State. “With God’s help, we will uplift Edo State, eradicate poverty, eliminate fear, and ensure the happiness of our people,” he concluded.
As the tribunal continues, the legal proceedings and the heightened atmosphere of tension in Edo State are being closely watched. Ighodalo and his supporters remain resolute in their faith in the judiciary and their determination to reclaim the mandate.
“We urge our supporters to remain strong and continue praying. By God’s grace, we will restore our mandate and bring about the positive change that Edo State deserves,” Ighodalo said.
