Toba Owojaiye reporting
Benin City, Edo State
In a stirring show of solidarity amid mounting political tension, councillors from Ikpoba-Okha and Oredo Local Government Areas on Saturday rallied behind Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the Edo 2024 governorship election.
Truth Live News gathered that the delegation, led by their respective legislative leaders, Rt. Hon. Kingsley Balogban (Ikpoba-Okha) and Rt. Hon. Harrison Izekor (Oredo), visited Dr. Ighodalo in Benin City to publicly declare their unwavering loyalty to the PDP and its ideals despite intense pressures.
The councillors, speaking passionately, described their visit as a statement of their resolve to resist intimidation, lucrative offers of defection, and acts of betrayal that have marked the political climate. They pledged to stand united with their party and Dr. Ighodalo during this challenging period, reaffirming their commitment to the trust reposed in them by the people.
Responding, an emotionally charged Dr. Ighodalo praised the courage of the councillors. “Your decision to stand by the PDP and its values is nothing short of inspiring. It is in times of adversity that true character is revealed. Your visit today sends a powerful message of loyalty, integrity, and resilience,” he said.
He further urged them to hold firm, reminding them that the storms of intimidation and threats would soon pass. “I urge you to remember the mandate freely given to you by the people. Stand resolute, for PDP is your party, and the people trust you to uphold their will. These trials are temporary, and together, we will overcome,” Dr. Ighodalo assured.
Dr. Eric Osayande, Ikpoba-Okha Council Chairman, expressed profound appreciation for the councillors’ solidarity, lauding the harmonious relationship between the legislative and executive arms in his council.
The visit was attended by key PDP figures, including Barr. Osarodion Ogie, the deputy governorship candidate; Hon. Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, Director-General of the 2024 PDP Campaign Council; Dr. Eric Osayande; Dr. Tom Obaseki, Oredo Council Chairman; and other party stalwarts.
As the PDP battles internal and external challenges, this act of solidarity from Ikpoba-Okha and Oredo councillors serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring power of loyalty and shared purpose.