By Oso Abidemi
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), governorship candidate in Edo State, Asue Ighodalo, has declared that the party won the 2025 election convincingly and is firmly focused on reclaiming its mandate through the courts.
Speaking in Benin City at a packed PDP stakeholders’ meeting on Thursday, Ighodalo charged loyalists to remain united and undeterred, promising that loyalty and hard work would be rewarded.
“We will restructure. We will strengthen and refocus the party. Days when people who didn’t work get rewarded are gone,” he said, drawing loud applause from the crowd.
The PDP standard-bearer acknowledged the sacrifices of party members during the fiercely contested polls, which he claimed were won despite intimidation and heavy financial inducements by opponents.
“I haven’t had the opportunity to publicly thank everyone since the election.
“In spite of the intimidation, in spite of the money, we won that election hands down,” Ighodalo asserted.
He expressed confidence in the ongoing legal battle, assuring party faithful that justice would prevail.
“We’ve gone on appeal. And if need be, we’ll go to the Supreme Court. God is just. Let’s all be strong,” he urged.
The meeting, which showcased the PDP’s united front, drew heavyweights including Chief Tom Ikimi, former governor Lucky Igbinedion, Marvelous Omobayo, House of Assembly Speaker Matthew Iduoyekemen, Osarodion Ogie, and other prominent party leaders across Edo State.
Ighodalo’s rousing remarks rekindled hope among party faithful, who chanted solidarity songs and pledged unwavering support.
As the legal battle intensifies, the PDP says it remains resolute and optimistic about reclaiming what it calls a stolen victory.
