“We Shall Not Rest Until the Stolen Mandate Is Restored” — Asue Ighodalo Heads to Supreme Court Over Edo Governorship Election
The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2024 Edo State governorship election, Asue Ighodalo, has vowed to continue the fight for what he calls the “stolen mandate” of the Edo people, following the Court of Appeal’s decision to uphold the election results.
In a strongly worded statement released on Wednesday, Ighodalo announced that he has directed his legal team to appeal the judgment at the Supreme Court, describing the ruling as a failure to address widespread electoral violations and a dangerous precedent for Nigeria’s democracy.
“We shall not rest until the voices of our people are heard and their stolen mandate restored,” Ighodalo declared.
The Court of Appeal, like the election tribunal before it, dismissed the PDP’s petition challenging the outcome of the September 21, 2024, election, which returned the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate as governor. Ighodalo, however, insists that the elections were marred by serious irregularities and non-compliance with the Electoral Act.
“Our struggle has never been about personal ambition. It has always been about standing with the people of Edo State and defending their sacred right to freely choose their leaders through a credible, transparent, and fair election,” he said.
While expressing disappointment with the court’s decision, Ighodalo called on his supporters to remain calm, peaceful, and vigilant, stating that the legal journey is not over.
He added that the Supreme Court now carries the responsibility of restoring public trust and safeguarding the democratic principles enshrined in the constitution. “We believe their Lordships will consider not just the letter of the law, but the greater implications for democracy, justice, and public trust,” he said.
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