By Kolawole Ojebisi
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has expressed confidence that the result of the September 21, 2024, governorship election, which saw Senator Monday Okpebholo emerging as the winner, will be overturned in favour of its candidate, Asue Ighodalo.
The party made this claim as the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal resumes sitting today (Monday).
This claim was made in a communiqué released on Sunday, following a meeting of the party’s leadership, attended by Ighodalo.
The communiqué, signed by the Secretary of the Edo State PDP Caretaker Committee, Henry Tenebe, noted that far-reaching decisions were made during the meeting, which was convened by the Chairman of the Committee, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi.
Tenebe explained that after extensive deliberations on the state of affairs in the party and Edo State, resolutions were reached.
The statement reads:“The party reaffirmed its resolve to reclaim the mandate duly given to it by the people of Edo State in the last governorship election. It called for the continuous support and prayers of all party faithful and the people of Edo State as PDP and its candidate progress on this arduous journey.”
The communiqué also recognised the dedication of party members across the state:
“The meeting acknowledged and deeply appreciated the commitment, loyalty, and steadfastness of party members and faithful supporters across Edo State, urging them never to relent in their support and prayers for the party and its leadership.”
The party expressed concern over the state of Edo under the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration:
“The attendees expressed grave concern over the current state of Edo under the APC-led administration. The party observed with dismay that the state has suffered significant setbacks in recent months.”
The PDP reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law and constitutional democracy:
“The PDP reaffirmed its unshakable commitment to the rule of law and upholding constitutional democracy in the state. The party strongly believes that law, order, and security are essential for the peace, progress, and development of Edo State and Nigeria as a whole.”
Additionally, the party chairmen at the local government level unanimously passed a vote of confidence in the State Caretaker Committee and in Ighodalo:
“The party chairmen at the local government level unanimously passed a vote of implicit confidence in the State Caretaker Committee and the party’s candidate in the last governorship election, Asue Ighodalo. They commended both leaders for their outstanding leadership and exemplary efforts in piloting the affairs of the party, fostering unity and progress in the Edo State chapter of the PDP.”
