Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the September 2024 Edo State governorship election, has strongly criticized the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold his electoral defeat, describing the verdict as a betrayal of democratic values.
In a statement issued shortly after the ruling on Thursday in Abuja, Ighodalo acknowledged the finality of the Supreme Court’s judgment but questioned its legitimacy. “I do not and cannot pretend that what was delivered amounts to justice,” he wrote.
The PDP candidate expressed disappointment over what he termed a “coordinated and deliberate” manipulation of the electoral process, which he claims has now been tragically endorsed by Nigeria’s highest court.
Ighodalo did not mince words in his criticism, stating that the judgment reflects a broader institutional failure. “Not just by those who rigged the process, but by the very institutions we trusted to protect our democracy,” he said.
He further lamented that the voice of the electorate had been disregarded, asserting that voters had chosen “competence, progress, and prosperity,” only to have their mandate invalidated without consequence.
While reiterating his respect for judicial authority, Ighodalo maintained his right to speak out. “I will not and cannot obstruct any judicial pronouncement, no matter how flawed, but I must never fear to speak truth to power,” he said.
In his closing remarks, he acknowledged the disappointment and frustration of his supporters: “I feel your pain. I share your anger. And I will never forget your courage.”
The statement adds to growing concerns about the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral and judicial systems, particularly in high-stakes political contests.
