BENIN CITY, Nigeria — Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, candidate Asue Ighodalo has announced his intention to challenge the judgment of the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, which on Tuesday, April 2, 2025 upheld the election of Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress, APC, as governor.
In a statement released on Wednesday and personally signed by Ighodalo, he described the tribunal’s decision as a “travesty of justice” and confirmed that his legal team has been instructed to proceed to the Court of Appeal.
The tribunal, presided over by Justice Wilfred Kpochi, had dismissed Ighodalo’s petition challenging the declaration made by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which named Okpebholo as the winner of the September 21, 2024, governorship election.
“This is not the end”
While expressing his respect for the judiciary, Ighodalo said the judgment marked not the conclusion of his political journey but rather the beginning of a broader struggle for democratic justice.
“I remain resolute in my conviction that the will of the people must prevail,” Ighodalo said.
“This ruling does not reflect the genuine desires of Edo people as expressed at the polls. I am committed to pursuing this matter further in the Court of Appeal to ensure justice is served.”
He urged the people of Edo State to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and united during what he called a pivotal moment in the state’s democratic evolution.
“Driven by vision, not ambition”
Ighodalo used the opportunity to reflect on his campaign, stating that it was motivated by a desire to bring inclusive prosperity to the state, not personal political ambition.
He thanked Edo residents for their “immense support and love” throughout the electoral process and reiterated that the struggle was bigger than any individual.
“This is about preserving our democracy and protecting the people’s right to determine their leadership through a credible, free, and fair electoral process,” he said.
The PDP candidate’s decision to pursue legal redress adds a fresh chapter to what has been a highly contested and closely watched post-election battle in Edo State.
Analysts say the appeal could have significant political ramifications, especially as both parties brace for upcoming national and subnational elections.
The Court of Appeal is expected to set a hearing date in the coming weeks.
