PDP Candidate Asue Ighodalo Claims Victory in Edo Governorship Election

In a significant victory for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Asue Ighodalo has emerged victorious in the governorship election at the polling unit located at Idumuoka Primary Health Centre, situated within the Igueben Local Government Area of Edo State. The results declared at the polling unit indicated that Ighodalo garnered 104 votes, leaving All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate Monday Okpebholo trailing with 34 votes. Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party came third, securing four votes.

Earlier on the election day, Ighodalo expressed confidence in his campaign, predicting a landslide victory while encouraging voters to participate actively. “We will win this election by landslide and move our state forward by God’s grace,” Ighodalo remarked. He urged voters still at home to head to the polls and cast their votes, while expressing concerns over alleged electoral malpractices, primarily attributed to opposing party members.

Ighodalo alleged that there were reports of attempts to undermine the electoral process, with claims of individuals being caught with ballot papers and PVCs (Permanent Voter Cards). He further criticized the alleged vote-buying tactics, claiming, “They buy votes for N15,000 to N20,000. They are trying everything to subvert the process.” Despite these allegations, Ighodalo commended the Nigerian military for ensuring the safety of the voting populace.

While expressing satisfaction with the engagement efforts over the past ten months, Ighodalo stated, “The people believed us and have accepted us all over the state.” He cited overwhelmingly positive feedback from various regions within Edo State, including Edo North, Edo Central, and Edo South.

Ighodalo also emphasized the importance of a free and fair election, asserting confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) ability to conduct such a process. However, he acknowledged some incidents that raised concerns, including the arrest of one of their supporters in Uromi by individuals affiliated with a security outfit. “We are not happy about a few ongoing issues in some places, but we will remain confident,” he stated.