The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the September 21, 2024, Edo State governorship election, Asue Ighodalo, has alleged that the All Progressives Congress (APC) attempted to bribe his witnesses with a staggering ₦30 million in an effort to influence the ongoing tribunal proceedings.
Speaking during a PDP stakeholders’ meeting held in Benin City on Thursday, Ighodalo expressed deep appreciation to his witnesses for their courage and loyalty in the face of pressure and inducement. He assured party members and supporters that the legal battle was far from over, vowing to pursue the case to the Supreme Court in a bid to reclaim what he described as a stolen mandate.
“This battle is not just about me; it’s about the will of the people. Despite the ₦30 million offer, our witnesses refused to be compromised. They stood their ground, and for that, I’m truly grateful,” he said.
Ighodalo criticized the recent tribunal ruling, asserting that the judgment did not reflect the realities of the election and amounted to a miscarriage of justice. He maintained that the PDP would continue to challenge the outcome through all available legal means.
“The tribunal’s decision was unfair. We’ve already filed an appeal and are prepared to go all the way to the Supreme Court. We believe justice will eventually prevail because God is not asleep,” he added.
The PDP candidate also highlighted the unity within the party and reiterated that he, his running mate Osarodion Ogie, and other party leaders in Edo were committed to seeing the struggle through to the end.
Looking ahead, Ighodalo expressed optimism about reclaiming the governorship and pledged to build on the legacy of past PDP administrations, particularly that of former Governor Lucky Igbinedion.
“Once we retrieve our mandate, we’ll resume from where visionary leaders like Lucky Igbinedion left off. Our goal is to create a prosperous Edo where every hardworking citizen can thrive. God has used this delay to teach us patience and wisdom. If we had taken office immediately, we might have made some poor decisions regarding appointments. Now, we know who truly stands with us, and those people will be rewarded,” he said.
Ighodalo’s remarks have added a fresh twist to the post-election political drama in Edo State, with both camps preparing for a prolonged legal tussle.
