Asue Ighodalo, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Edo State governorship election, has rejected the ruling of the election petition tribunal.
The tribunal on Wednesday upheld the election of Governor Monday Okpebholo, dismissing Ighodalo’s petition challenging the outcome of the September 21, 2024 poll.
In a statement, Ighodalo said while he respects the judiciary, he remains steadfast in his belief that the right of Edo people to elect their leaders through a credible process must not be compromised.
He urged his supporters to remain peaceful and law-abiding but declared that the legal battle is far from over.
His words: “From the outset, your massive support, love, and belief in our shared vision for a prosperous Edo State have fueled this journey. This has never been about personal ambition but about our collective resolve to create a Pathway to Prosperity for all Edo people while upholding democracy, justice, and the will of the people.
“I have, therefore, instructed my legal team to proceed to the Court of Appeal to challenge this judgment, which we consider a grave travesty of justice. This is not about me or any individual—it is about the essence of democracy, the preservation of our collective right to determine our future, and the legacy we leave for generations to come.
“We remain resolute. We remain committed. And we shall not waver in our pursuit of truth and justice.”