The atmosphere in Edo State has grown increasingly tense as the governorship election tribunal intensifies its proceedings over the controversial September 2024 election. Asue Ighodalo, the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), remains optimistic about reclaiming what he calls the “stolen mandate,” expressing confidence in the judiciary despite rising intimidation and threats.
Speaking to reporters outside the tribunal venue on Wednesday, Ighodalo reaffirmed his commitment to justice and condemned acts aimed at derailing the judicial process. “We strongly believe that the judiciary will do the right thing, and we’re eagerly anticipating the outcome of the tribunal,” Ighodalo said. “Our focus remains reclaiming our mandate and delivering real change for the people of Edo State. We’ll take poverty out of our land, remove fear, and unlock our state’s immense potential.”
Citizens’ Endurance Amid Political Tension
Ighodalo acknowledged the steadfastness of Edo citizens throughout the tribunal proceedings, despite alleged harassment and intimidation. “I want to thank the good people of Edo State for their overwhelming support during the September 21 election and for keeping faith in us over the last three months. They’ve remained calm and resilient even in the face of challenging times,” he remarked.
The PDP candidate emphasised that these challenges were deliberate distractions aimed at discouraging his team. “We’ve faced many incidents, including an attack outside the courthouse, which clearly shows there’s a strategy to intimidate and derail this process,” he said, referencing an alarming event where a masked gunman opened fire near the tribunal venue.
Violence and Accusations
Shortly before the day’s tribunal session began, chaos erupted as a masked individual, reportedly disguised in PDP regalia, fired shots outside the court. Although no injuries were reported, the incident heightened fears and sparked condemnation. A video of the incident, widely circulated online, has further fueled public anxiety.
Separately, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) raided a prominent Benin hotel on the eve of the tribunal session. The hotel was allegedly housing key witnesses for the PDP. While the EFCC acknowledged the operation, it denied any political motives, dismissing claims that it was acting under instructions from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the PDP’s Edo Caretaker Committee, linked both incidents to an alleged APC strategy of intimidation. “The APC is deploying underhanded tactics, from using masked thugs disguised as PDP members to sending state agencies like the EFCC to undermine us. This lawlessness cannot stand,” he said, calling for a probe into the motives behind the actions.
Aziegbemi also accused the APC of instigating violence to discredit the PDP. “We’ve warned our members to stay away from the tribunal to avoid false accusations, but the APC’s desperation is unprecedented. Deploying a masked gunman and orchestrating hotel raids shows they’ll stop at nothing,” he added.
Ighodalo’s Vision for Edo
Despite the turmoil, Ighodalo remains resolute, insisting that his case at the tribunal will lead to justice. “There are countless distractions, but we’re focused on seeing this process through. By God’s grace, we’ll emerge victorious,” he declared.
For Ighodalo, reclaiming the governorship is more than a personal mission—it is a promise of transformation for Edo State. “Our state deserves better. We’ll fight poverty, eliminate fear and violence, and work towards making Edo a shining example of good governance,” he asserted.
APC Denies Allegations
Responding to the allegations, the APC dismissed claims of instigating violence and employing intimidation tactics as baseless. In a statement, the party insisted it is committed to a peaceful and lawful tribunal process. “The PDP’s accusations are a desperate attempt to distract the public from the facts of the case. We believe in the integrity of the judiciary and urge everyone to remain calm and law-abiding,” the statement read.
Observers note that tensions have mounted since the September election, which was fraught with claims of malpractice and voter suppression. The tribunal, which has been closely watched by citizens and political stakeholders alike, is seen as a crucial test for Edo’s democratic future.
Hope Amid Crisis
As the tribunal proceedings continue, Ighodalo urged citizens to remain patient and hopeful. “This journey requires resilience and prayer. We trust that God and the judiciary will guide us to victory, and Edo State will see the positive change it deserves,” he said.
His unwavering optimism has rallied supporters, who continue to push for what they view as a rightful mandate. However, the incidents outside the courthouse and the EFCC’s controversial actions underscore the volatile nature of the current political climate in Edo State.
With both parties digging in their heels, the tribunal’s eventual ruling is expected to be a defining moment for the state. Until then, the people of Edo State—and the nation—watch with bated breath as the battle for justice unfolds.
