Edo governorship dispute: Ighodalo rejects tribunal judgement, heads to Appeal Court, as Okpebholo waves olive branch

Asue Ighodalo, the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the 2024 Edo State governorship election, has rejected the judgement of the Edo State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal that on Wednesday affirmed Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress, APC, as governor.

Ighodalo in a statement vowed to to challenge the Edo State tribunal verdict 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.”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,” he said.

A three-member panel, led by Justice Wilfred Kpochi, struck out Ighodalo’s petition due to a lack of merit and the failure to present competent witnesses to substantiate the claims of non-compliance with the Electoral Act.

The PDP candidate urged his supporters and other party faithful to keep the peace and seek the rule of law in their fight for justice.

”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 are on the platform of our great Party, the People’s Democratic Party, PDP,” he added.

Ighodalo’s stance is a rebuff of Okpebholo’s plea for cooperation in the interest of the state.

According to the governor  tge time had come  to put partisan differences aside and concentrate on the common goal of building a better future for Edo State.

“I wish to express my profound gratitude to the tribunal for their diligence and fairness. I also extend my sincere appreciation to the people of Edo State for their unwavering support and belief in my vision for a prosperous and united state, Okpebholo said.

“This victory is not mine alone but a victory for every citizen and resident of Edo State. It is a mandate to continue the work we have started—to build a state where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We remain committed to our promise of good governance, transparency, and inclusive development.

“I call on all citizens, including opposition parties and the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Asue Ighodalo, to join hands in the spirit of unity and work together for the progress of Edo State.

“It is time to put aside partisan differences and focus on the common goal of building a better future for our state.”