Appeal Court Bombshell: Ighodalo’s Bid Dismissed—Wike Reacts With Subtle Jab

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has praised the Appeal Court ruling that upheld the election of Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, following the September 2024 gubernatorial election.

Justice Mohammed Danjuma, who delivered the judgment on Thursday, ruled that the election was properly conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and affirmed Okpebholo’s victory.

The court also dismissed the appeal filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, declaring it lacking in merit. Justice Danjuma stated that the appellants failed to prove any miscarriage of justice in the earlier verdict of the Edo State Election Petition Tribunal, which had similarly rejected their claims.

In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, Wike described the Appeal Court judgment as a strong validation of the people’s will, expressed through their support for Governor Okpebholo.

He encouraged the governor to remain steadfast in delivering quality governance and ensuring democratic dividends reach the citizens.

Reaffirming his confidence in Okpebholo’s leadership, Wike called on Ighodalo to accept the court’s decision and move on, saying: “He should allow the sleeping dogs of the election to lie.”

“I’ve observed his performance since taking office, and I believe he’s serving Edo State well,” Wike added. “I’m confident that his administration will bring lasting progress to the state.”