The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has voiced strong opposition to the results of the governorship election held on Saturday, which saw All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate Senator Monday Okpebholo declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, who heads the Edo State Governorship Election National Campaign Council, called for accountability from INEC, accusing it of violating the Electoral Act. “We stand in solidarity with our candidate, Asue Ighodalo, who we believe clearly won the election,” he stated.
In the election results, Okpebholo secured 291,667 votes, defeating Ighodalo, who garnered 247,274 votes. Labour Party candidate Olumide Akpata finished a distant third with 22,761 votes. The APC claimed victory in 10 of the state’s 18 local government areas, while the PDP won in eight.
Following the election, the Progressive Governors’ Forum congratulated Okpebholo on his win. Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, Chairman of the Forum, praised the election outcome as a reflection of the trust the people of Edo State have in the APC.
“In extending my heartfelt congratulations to Senator Okpebholo, I also commend the people of Edo for their overwhelming support,” Uzodimma said. “This victory reaffirms their belief in our vision and commitment to sustainable development and progress.”
He expressed optimism that under Okpebholo’s leadership, Edo State would embark on a transformative journey towards growth and prosperity. “This is not just a win for our party but for the entire state and nation as we strive for a better Nigeria,” he added.
As the political landscape in Edo State evolves, the PDP continues to challenge the legitimacy of the election results, setting the stage for potential legal disputes and ongoing tensions between the parties.