Toba Owojaiye reporting
Benin City, Edo State
In the aftermath of a contentious election day marred by allegations of violence, threats, and manipulation, Asue Ighodalo, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Edo State in the 2024 governorship election, has extended a heartfelt message of gratitude to the resilient people of Edo State.
His speech, delivered on September 23, 2024, made available to Truth Live News reflected not only his deep appreciation for their support but also a firm resolve to continue the fight for a better and more prosperous Edo.
Addressing the people, Ighodalo began by expressing his gratitude to God for the gift of life and the love shown by the Edo people throughout his campaign journey. With an unmistakable tone of humility and passion, he thanked those who supported him, particularly the brave men and women who cast their votes on Saturday, September 21, 2024, despite facing daunting challenges.
“I would like to particularly thank the good people of Edo State who defied the rains, intimidation, threats of violence, harassment, arrests, and financial inducements to cast their votes for us, overwhelmingly,” Ighodalo stated. “You are the true heroes of our democracy, and your sacrifices for a better Edo State will never be forgotten.”
The PDP candidate spoke earnestly of his motivation to run for office, clarifying that his aspiration was driven not by a love for power but by a genuine desire to serve the people of Edo and create a “Pathway to Prosperity for All.” Throughout his campaign, Ighodalo traveled to every corner of the state, engaging with citizens, sharing his vision for the future, and hearing their concerns.
“Together, we ran a great campaign, and your overwhelming support was evident in the ballots before our progress was unjustly halted on September 21st, 2024 by people who do not mean well for you or for our state,” he emphasized.
Despite the disappointment and allegations of electoral misconduct, Ighodalo reassured his supporters that the struggle for a prosperous Edo State is far from over. Referring to the events of that day as “one of our darkest moments,” he called the subversion of the people’s will a “brazen theft of our mandate.”
However, his message remained one of resilience and hope. “Yet, in the face of this challenge, we must not be discouraged,” Ighodalo continued. “The illusory triumph of evil over good is only temporary.”
Determined to continue the fight, Ighodalo urged his supporters to stay engaged and united, reaffirming his commitment to the cause that united them. “Our journey towards a prosperous Edo State does not end here; it is just beginning. Let us remain engaged, committed, and united in our collective resolve to create a Pathway to Prosperity for All in Edo State,” he said passionately.
As the political landscape in Edo State remains tense, Ighodalo’s words carry a message of hope, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the people he seeks to lead.