Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the September 21, 2024, Edo State governorship election, has alleged that the All Progressives Congress (APC) attempted to bribe his witnesses at the tribunal with N30 million.
Speaking at a PDP stakeholders’ meeting in Benin on Thursday, Ighodalo praised his witnesses for their integrity and loyalty, stating that despite the bribe offer, they stood firm with the party. He assured party members that he would pursue the legal battle to the Supreme Court in a bid to reclaim his "stolen mandate."
Ighodalo emphasized that he and his running mate, Osarodion Ogie, remain committed to the course, despite the tribunal’s ruling, which upheld APC candidate Monday Okpebholo’s victory. Okpebholo had been declared winner of the election with 291,667 votes, defeating Ighodalo who scored 247,655 votes.
“The tribunal’s verdict was not fair. We’ve appealed, and we’ll take the case to the Supreme Court. We are confident that God will intervene because He is just,” Ighodalo said.
He also assured that if given the opportunity to lead, his administration would build on the legacy of former Governor Lucky Igbinedion and ensure progress for all, rewarding party loyalty and commitment.
At the meeting, PDP leaders including Chief Tom Ikhimi and Edo State PDP Caretaker Chairman Tony Aziegbemi, expressed optimism that the party would emerge stronger from the ongoing challenges. They accused the APC of trying to weaken the PDP through coercion and manipulation, but insisted that the PDP remained the majority and the most viable political force in the state.
Former Governor Lucky Igbinedion and the party’s Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare, also called for unity and resilience among members, urging them to stay committed to the party’s vision and future.
