The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has confidently proclaimed Dr. Asue Ighodalo as the winner of Saturday’s governorship election in Edo State, based on results gathered from its agents across the state.
This declaration follows mounting tensions as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) faces scrutiny over its handling of the election results.
In a robust statement from the PDP Governors Forum, the governors asserted that Ighodalo’s lead is evident despite the ongoing collation process. They called on INEC to respect what they termed “the sovereign will of the people,” emphasizing the necessity of democratic integrity in light of the current climate of political unrest.
“This is particularly crucial considering the threats to democracy posed by the total state capture tendencies of the APC government,” the statement warned.
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The forum, led by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, noted that officials should act in accordance with their oaths and emphasize impartiality.
The PDP’s confidence endorses the results provided by Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State, which indicated that Ighodalo maintained a noticeable lead before INEC suspended the collation. “We are satisfied that our governors have performed their duties lawfully and guided the electorate to remain calm throughout the process,” the forum said.
Furthermore, the national leadership of the PDP reiterated that Ighodalo’s victory is based on genuine votes and accused the APC of attempting to manipulate the outcome. Debo Ologunagba, the National Publicity Secretary, stated, “The rush, venom, and insults the APC directed towards Governor Fintiri only confirm their violent desperation to cover up manipulations.”
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The party condemned any attempts to declare results that would misrepresent the electorate’s will, warning that doing so could trigger substantial unrest in the state.
“INEC must do what is right in the interest of peace, stability, and the preservation of democracy in Nigeria,” the statement cautioned.
The PDP praised the high voter turnout, underscoring the public’s demand for credible leadership amid worsening economic and security challenges.
