Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the 2024 Edo State election, has sharply criticized the Supreme Court’s verdict affirming the election of Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as governor, describing the decision as a “deep betrayal” of democratic ideals.
The apex court, in a unanimous ruling delivered by a five-member panel led by Justice Mohammed Lawal, dismissed the PDP’s appeal, citing a failure to substantiate claims of electoral malpractice, non-compliance with the Electoral Act, and allegations that Okpebholo was not duly elected. The justices ruled that the appeal lacked merit.
Reacting to the judgment, Ighodalo issued a strongly worded statement, expressing disappointment in both the electoral process and the judiciary, though he acknowledged the legal finality of the court’s ruling.
“Like many of you, I feel a deep sense of betrayal—not only by those who manipulated the electoral process but also by the institutions entrusted with defending our democracy. On September 22, 2024, the people voted for progress, competence, and a new vision. Today, we are told their voice no longer matters,” Ighodalo said.
He described the outcome of the election as a “coordinated robbery” and accused unnamed actors of orchestrating electoral fraud in favor of the APC candidate, though he did not present concrete evidence to support the claim.
While affirming his respect for the judiciary, Ighodalo said he could not “pretend that what was delivered today amounts to justice.”
“We are neither a broken nor fearful people. We may be wounded, but wounds heal. Let this be our vow: we will not retreat, we will not be silenced, and we will not forget,” he added.
The Supreme Court’s decision marks the end of the legal challenge to the 2024 Edo governorship election. With Okpebholo’s victory now sealed, attention is expected to shift toward governance and the reconciliation of political divides.
Observers note that Ighodalo’s reaction mirrors growing concerns in parts of the country about electoral credibility and public trust in democratic institutions—an issue that has surfaced repeatedly in recent election cycles.
Meanwhile, APC supporters celebrated the ruling as a reaffirmation of the people’s will, calling on all parties to unite for the development of Edo State.
