‘Our mandate was stolen’ – Ighodalo speaks on outcome of Edo election

Asue Ighodalo, candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Edo state governorship poll, says the election was “stolen by the opposition”.

Monday Okpebholo, candidate of the APC, won the election with 291,667 votes to defeat Ighodalo who polled 247,655 votes.

Olumide Akpata, candidate of the Labour Party (LP), came third with 22, 763 votes.

Speaking on Monday, Ighodalo claimed the electoral process was marred by intimidation, threats of violence, harassment, arrests and financial inducements.

“We ran a great campaign, and your overwhelming support was evident in the ballots before our progress was unjustly halted on September 21st, 2024 by people who do not mean well for you or for our state,” he said.

“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.

“Yet, in the face of this challenge, we must not be discouraged. The illusory triumph of evil over good is only temporary.”

Ighodalo urged the people of Edo not to lose faith, adding that they should remain committed to creating a prosperous state.

“Our journey towards a prosperous Edo State does not end here; it is just beginning. Let us remain engaged, committed, and united in our collective resolve to create a Pathway to Prosperity for All in Edo State,” he said.

“You did not abandon me during our campaign; and I promise you that as we face a daunting and uncertain future together, I will not abandon you.”