Ighodalo Decries Distractions at Edo Tribunal, Urges Focus on Justice
Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the disputed September 2024 Edo State election, has condemned the “deliberate acts of violence and harassment” intended to distract from the tribunal proceedings. Speaking outside the courthouse on Wednesday, Ighodalo expressed his gratitude to the people of Edo State for their unwavering support and reiterated his confidence in the judiciary to deliver justice.
Addressing a crowd of supporters, Ighodalo acknowledged the growing tensions surrounding the tribunal, including a recent incident where an armed man was seen demanding justice in a viral video. Despite these challenges, Ighodalo remained resolute in his belief that the judiciary would do the right thing.
“We strongly believe that the judiciary will do the right thing, and we’re looking forward to the outcome of the tribunal,” he stated. He emphasized that the focus of the PDP campaign remains on reclaiming the party’s mandate and working for the betterment of the people of Edo State, with a vision of eradicating poverty and fear, and unlocking the state’s potential.
Ighodalo also expressed deep appreciation for the support from the people of Edo State, who he said had remained calm in the face of intimidation. “They’ve stayed calm in the face of intimidation and harassment, living on the strong hope that our efforts to reclaim our mandate will be successful,” he added.
The PDP candidate also addressed the disturbing incidents surrounding the tribunal, including the attack by a masked gunman outside the courthouse. He condemned these acts of violence, calling them “deliberate distractions meant to make us take our eyes off the ball.” Despite the growing threats, Ighodalo reaffirmed his commitment to staying focused on the legal process.
“These acts underscore the importance of staying focused. There are many distractions being thrown our way, but we will not be deterred,” he said. Ighodalo concluded by reaffirming his goal of emerging victorious from the tribunal process, with the mandate the people of Edo State had entrusted to him and his running mate, Osarodion Ogie.
Meanwhile, tensions escalated further when the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) conducted a raid at a popular hotel in Benin, where PDP witnesses were reportedly being kept. Although the EFCC denied political motivation for the raid, it has been widely condemned by PDP officials who claim that the APC is using state resources to intimidate witnesses and derail the tribunal process.
Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the PDP’s Edo Caretaker Committee, condemned the actions, accusing the APC of deploying thugs disguised as PDP members and using state agencies like the EFCC to disrupt the tribunal. “This level of desperation is unacceptable,” Aziegbemi stated.
