Mr. Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the September 21, 2024, Edo governorship election, has vowed to challenge the Court of Appeal’s decision affirming the victory of Governor Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement released on Thursday, Ighodalo expressed his disappointment with the Appeal Court’s judgment, echoing his sentiments following the earlier tribunal ruling. He asserted his unwavering resolve to pursue justice through the legal system.
“My good people of Edo State, today, the Court of Appeal delivered its judgment on our petition challenging the declared outcome of the September 21st, 2024 governorship election in Edo State,” Ighodalo stated. “As with the judgment of the tribunal, we have received this decision with deep disappointment, but also with unwavering resolve to continue our pursuit of justice.”
Ighodalo emphasized his belief in the rule of law but insisted that injustice must be challenged. He has instructed his legal team to approach the Supreme Court of Nigeria to seek redress. He stated that this action is on behalf of Edo voters, the youth, and all Nigerians who believe in a well-practiced democracy.
He expressed confidence in the Supreme Court’s integrity and its role as the final guardian of justice, hoping the court will consider the broader implications for democracy and public trust.
Ighodalo acknowledged the court’s pronouncement but maintained that the judgment, like the tribunal’s, failed to address concerns regarding non-compliance and violations of the Electoral Act. He reiterated that his struggle is about defending the right of Edo people to freely choose their leaders through a credible election, which he claims was subverted on September 21st, 2024.
He urged his supporters to remain peaceful, vigilant, and steadfast, framing the Supreme Court challenge as the next chapter in the pursuit of truth and justice for Edo State. “We shall not rest until the voices of our people are heard and their stolen mandate restored,” Ighodalo concluded.