Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for governor of Edo State, has strongly denounced what he called “deliberate acts of violence and harassment meant to distract us from our mission” as the legal proceedings surrounding the contentious September 2024 election heat up.
Ighodalo’s remarks came during a media briefing outside the courthouse on Wednesday, where he addressed the concerns raised by his supporters and condemned efforts to intimidate those involved in the legal process. He expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the people of Edo State for their unwavering support, reaffirming his faith in the judiciary.
“We strongly believe that the judiciary will do the right thing, and we’re looking forward to the outcome of the tribunal,” Ighodalo stated. He emphasized that the PDP’s mission is clear: to reclaim their mandate and champion the interests of the Edo populace. “Our focus remains reclaiming our mandate and working positively for the good people of Edo State. We will take poverty out of our land, eliminate fear and intimidation, and unlock the great potential of this state,” he added.
Ighodalo also took the opportunity to commend the citizens of Edo for their resilience during a period rife with challenges. “I want to thank the good people of Edo State for coming out in massive numbers to vote for us on September 21 and for keeping faith through the difficulties,” he remarked, acknowledging their composure amid a wave of intimidation.
The candidate highlighted troubling incidents that have overshadowed the tribunal process, including a recent assault by an unidentified gunman near the courthouse. Ighodalo described these violent acts as calculated distractions, stating, “These acts of violence and harassment are deliberate distractions meant to make us take our eyes off the ball.” He stressed the necessity of remaining focused despite the ongoing challenges.
Ighodalo reiterated the Party’s commitment to navigating the tribunal process with determination and resolving to reclaim the mandate that he and his running mate, Osarodion Ogie, believe was rightfully bestowed upon them by the electorate.
The atmosphere surrounding the tribunal has been further charged following an incident on Tuesday in which the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) conducted a raid on a well-known hotel in Benin where PDP witnesses were reportedly housed. This move has heightened tensions and sparked accusations from party officials who allege that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is misusing state resources for intimidation tactics.
While the EFCC confirmed the raid, it refuted claims that it had any political motivations. Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the PDP’s Edo Caretaker Committee, condemned these developments, alleging that the APC is resorting to desperate measures to disrupt proceedings. “The APC is deploying thugs disguised in PDP attire and using state agencies like the EFCC to disrupt our case at the tribunal. This level of desperation is unacceptable,” he asserted.
