Chairman of the Edo State Peoples Democratic Party Caretaker Committee, Tony Aziegbemi, addressed party members on Thursday, encouraging them to remain steadfast following the tribunal’s recent ruling, which he described as a momentary setback.
Aziegbemi emphasized the party’s commitment to utilizing all available democratic avenues to ensure that the will of the Edo State populace prevails. His comments came in response to the Edo State Governorship Election Tribunal’s decision to uphold the election victory of Governor Monday Okpehbolo.
The tribunal, presided over by Justice Wilfred Kpochi, dismissed the PDP’s petition, citing insufficient evidence of over-voting presented by the party. The ruling confirmed that Okpehbolo received the highest number of valid votes in the election.
While acknowledging the judgment, Aziegbemi expressed his disagreement, reiterating the party’s belief that their candidate, Asue Ighodalo, legitimately won the majority of votes.
In a statement, Aziegbemi remarked, “The Edo State Election Petition Tribunal has ruled on our petition concerning the outcome of the Edo State Governorship Election held on September 21, 2024. Despite our respect for the judiciary, we fundamentally disagree with the tribunal’s decision.”
He affirmed, “We are confident that our candidate, Asuerinme Ighodalo, was duly elected by the majority of voters, and we believe we presented a solid case before the tribunal.”
Aziegbemi urged party members to rise from this setback, assuring them that the party intends to appeal the ruling in a higher court, stating, “We call on all members to rise from this temporary setback as we advance our case to the appellate courts. We firmly believe in the rule of law and the triumph of truth over falsehood, and we urge all supporters to maintain their hope as we pursue every democratic means to realize the will of the people of Edo State.”
