The People’s Democratic Party’s (PDP) candidate for governor of Edo in 2024, Asue Ighodalo, has disapproved of the electoral petition tribunal’s decision.
On Wednesday, the tribunal denied Ighodalo’s plea and maintained Monday Okpebholo’s election as the state’s governor.
Ighodalo stated in a statement that although he respects the courts, he is adamant that the Edo people’s freedom to choose their leaders in a fair election process should not be infringed.
“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 statement reads.
“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.
“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).”
According to Ighodalo, his legal team has been directed to appeal the ruling at the Court of Appeal.
READ ALSO: BREAKING: Tribunal Upholds Okpebholo’s Victory as Edo Governor, Dismisses PDP’s Petition
“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,” he added.
“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.
“We remain resolute. We remain committed. And we shall not waver in our pursuit of truth and justice.”
