Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the September 21, 2024, Edo State governorship election, has expressed outrage over what he described as the theft of his mandate and the subversion of the people’s will.
In a passionate statement following the announcement of Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner, Ighodalo claimed the election was marred by severe irregularities.
“That day will forever be etched in our history as one of our darkest moments, marked by the brazen theft of our mandate and the shameful subversion of the will of the people,” Ighodalo said.
According to the official results from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Ighodalo secured 247,274 votes, placing second behind Okpebholo, who won with 291,667 votes.
The Labour Party’s Olumide Akpata came in third with 22,763 votes.
Ighodalo, however, remained grateful to his supporters, acknowledging their steadfastness and courage in the face of adversity.
“You are the true heroes of our democracy, and your sacrifices for a better Edo State will never be forgotten,” he declared, noting that their overwhelming support was evident at the polls despite the setbacks.
The PDP candidate praised the resilience of Edo citizens, who he said defied threats of violence, intimidation, harassment, and financial inducements to cast their votes.
Reflecting on his campaign, Ighodalo emphasized that his candidacy was driven by a genuine desire to serve and improve the lives of Edo people, not for personal power.
“My aspiration was not born out of a love for power but from a genuine desire to serve and create a pathway to prosperity for all in Edo State,” he added, vowing to continue standing with the people in their pursuit of a brighter future.
