Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the Edo State governorship election has reacted after the Court of Appeal upheld the election of Monday Okpebholo as the winner of the September 21, 2024 election.
Speaking after the ruling, he stated that he’s going to the Supreme Court to challenge the judgement.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Ighodalo expressed “deep disappointment” with the judgment, which he said, like the earlier Tribunal ruling, failed to address “widespread acts of non-compliance” and “clear violations of the Electoral Act.” He accused the Appeal Court justices of endorsing “a dangerous pattern of electoral impunity” that may undermine public trust in Nigeria’s democracy.
“Our struggle has never been about personal ambition,” Ighodalo stated. “It has always been about standing with the people of Edo State and defending their sacred right to freely choose their leaders through a credible, transparent, and fair election.”
He announced that his legal team had been instructed to file an appeal at the Supreme Court, expressing confidence that the apex court would uphold democratic principles and deliver justice. He urged supporters to remain peaceful, vigilant, and committed to the cause.
“The eyes of Edo people, and indeed all Nigerians, now look up to the Supreme Court with hope,” Ighodalo said.
