Ismail Abdulazeez Mantu, Reporting
Edo State, Nigeria
The Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the September, 2024 Edo governorship election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, on Tuesday pledged to transform Edo to first world economy.
The accomplished banker, who secured 577 out of 585 accredited votes, delivered a pledge to transform Edo State into a first-world economy during his Certificate of Return ceremony held at the party’s National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Abuja, on Tuesday.
The landslide victory saw Dr. Ighodalo defeating nine other aspirants, including the incumbent deputy governor of the state, Philip Shaibu, and Anselm Ojezua. Expressing his gratitude in an appreciation speech after receiving the certificate of return,
Dr. Ighodalo commended party members, leaders, and stakeholders for their unwavering support throughout the primary process.
“I thank our party members and leaders, as well as other stakeholders of the party, especially the youths, who took me through the length and breadth of Edo State during my consultation to become our party’s candidate. I am extremely proud to be a member of this party. I also appreciate our women for their love and support. They carried me on their back from day one,” stated Dr. Ighodalo.
Acknowledging the fairness and transparency of the national leadership of the party, Dr. Ighodalo praised the National Working Committee (NWC) for conducting the primary election in Edo State with utmost transparency. He drew parallels with the historic MKO Abiola election of 1993, describing the recently held primary as a testament to fairness.
Addressing the youth population, Dr. Ighodalo emphasized the pivotal role they would play in his administration. “To the youths, it’s our time. By the grace of God and the will of the people of Edo State, we will run a government upheld by youths and with youths. Together, we will turn Edo into a state that everyone will be proud of.”
Expressing confidence in the potential for Edo to become a first-world economy in Africa, Dr. Ighodalo stated, “I have seen the path, and together, with your support and collaboration, we will achieve this.”
In a call for unity among party members ahead of the September gubernatorial election, Dr. Ighodalo extended gratitude to his co-aspirants, especially those who stepped down for him during the primary process. He urged everyone to unite for the common goal of retaining the seat at Osadebey Avenue and driving the progress of the state.
“I promise that this ticket is for all of us. I will take your advice; we will work together in the interest of our people. You’re all great men and women with varying capabilities and capacities. We will bring these capabilities together to move our state forward,” Dr. Ighodalo concluded.
Ighodalo was accompanied to receive the certificate by the State’s Party Chairman, Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi; former Deputy Governor, Chief Mike Ogiadomhe, and Senator Ehigie Uzamere, among others.
Other dignitaries Present were; Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Amb. Umar Ililya Damagum; National Secretary of the PDP, Senator Sam Anyanwu, and wife to the governorship candidate, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Ighodalo.