The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the September 2024 Edo election, Asue Ighodalo, has condemned what he described as “deliberate acts of violence and harassment” aimed at disrupting the ongoing tribunal proceedings over the disputed election.
Speaking to reporters outside the courthouse on Wednesday, Ighodalo expressed confidence in the judiciary and thanked Edo residents for their continued support despite the challenges.
Condemnation of Violence

Ighodalo criticized recent acts of intimidation, including a viral video showing an armed man demanding justice from the tribunal.
“These acts of violence and harassment are deliberate distractions meant to make us take our eyes off the ball,” he said. “There are many distractions being thrown our way, but we will not be deterred.”
He urged supporters to remain calm, noting, “Our focus remains reclaiming our mandate and working positively for the good people of Edo State.
We will take poverty out of our land, eliminate fear and intimidation, and unlock the great potential of this state.”
Gratitude to Edo Residents
Ighodalo expressed gratitude to Edo voters, saying, “I want to thank the good people of Edo State for coming out in massive numbers to vote for us on September 21 and for keeping faith through the difficulties.
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.”
Rising Tensions at Tribunal
The tribunal proceedings have been marred by alarming incidents.
On Tuesday, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) raided a popular Benin hotel where PDP witnesses were reportedly staying, an event that heightened tensions.
While the EFCC confirmed the raid, it denied any political motivation.
However, PDP officials accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of using state resources to intimidate witnesses and derail the tribunal process.
PDP Leadership Speaks Out
Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the PDP’s Edo Caretaker Committee, criticized the APC for allegedly orchestrating a campaign of intimidation.
“The APC is deploying thugs disguised in PDP attire and using state agencies like the EFCC to disrupt our case at the tribunal.
This level of desperation is unacceptable,” Aziegbemi stated.
He further claimed that such tactics are part of a broader strategy by the APC to intimidate opposition members and witnesses.
Judiciary Holds the Key
Despite the challenges, Ighodalo reaffirmed his faith in the judicial process. “We strongly believe that the judiciary will do the right thing, and we’re looking forward to the outcome of the tribunal,” he said.
Ighodalo concluded by pledging to remain focused on reclaiming the mandate he insists was given to him and his running mate, Osarodion Ogie, by the people of Edo State.
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