Ighodalo rallies PDP loyalists in Edo, reaffirms commitment to reclaim mandate

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the September 21, 2024, Edo State election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, has called on party members and loyalists to remain resolute and united in the face of the current political and legal challenges confronting the party.

He described the trials as tests of their faith in God and reaffirmed his determination to reclaim what he described as the party’s “stolen mandate.”

Addressing hundreds of enthusiastic party faithful at a stakeholders’ meeting held in Benin City and organized by the Edo State chapter of the PDP, Ighodalo urged members to stay strong, stressing that the party’s victory was denied despite overwhelming support from the electorate.

“We are going to reclaim our mandate — the mandate that was freely given to us by the people of Edo State,” he declared to a rousing ovation. “We will restructure, strengthen, and refocus the party. Everyone who worked tirelessly and loyally for the PDP will be duly rewarded. The era when those who didn’t contribute are the ones reaping the benefits is over.”

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He emphasized that the PDP in Edo remains a united family and praised members for their unwavering support during the election period, despite numerous attempts at intimidation and alleged financial inducements by the opposition.

“In spite of the intimidation, the money spent, and everything thrown against us, we won that election hands down,” Ighodalo said.

“I haven’t had the chance to thank you all publicly since the election, and I want to say thank you — to our women, our youths, and every single person who stood firm. I can’t thank you enough.”

Looking ahead, Ighodalo assured the people of Edo that a PDP-led administration would deliver a first-class government if the mandate is restored by the courts.

He revealed that the legal team has filed an appeal and is prepared to go all the way to the Supreme Court if necessary.

“God is just. He hears the cries of the people, especially the grassroots. I have absolute trust in our legal team and believe justice will prevail,” he stated.

The high-level stakeholders meeting saw the attendance of several prominent figures in the Edo PDP including the state caretaker committee chairman Tony Aziegbemi, PDP stalwart Chief Tom Ikimi, former Governor Lucky Igbinedion, and former Deputy Governor Marvelous Omobayo.

Others in attendance included former NDDC Edo representative Matthew Iduoyekemen, Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly Blessing Agbebaku, and Ighodalo’s running mate, Osarodion Ogie.

Also present were Hon. Marcus Onobun, former Esan North-East council chairman John Yakubu, Mrs. Benedicta Atoe, Pascal Ugbomhe, Akhere Ugbesia, Senator Odion Ugbesia, Owere Dickson Imasogie, Joe Okojie, Friday Itulah, and all PDP local government chairmen, among others.