Mr. Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the September 2024 Edo State governorship election, has expressed deep disappointment over the Supreme Court’s ruling that upheld the outcome of the controversial election.

In a strongly worded statement personally signed and released in Abuja shortly after the apex court's verdict on Thursday, Ighodalo said that while he respects the finality of the court's decision, it falls far short of delivering justice.

 “I do not and cannot pretend that what was delivered amounts to justice,” he said.

Ighodalo described the election as not just a flawed process but an outright robbery, claiming it was “coordinated, deliberate, and now, tragically validated by the highest court in the land.”

He emphasized that although he will not obstruct the judgment, no matter how flawed it may be, he remains committed to speaking truth to power.

 “Like you, I feel a deep sense of betrayal. Not just by those who rigged the process, but by the very institutions we trusted to protect our democracy,” he said.

He went on to commiserate with his supporters and the people of Edo State:

> “You came out in hope. You voted for competence, for progress, for prosperity, and now, we are told that your voice does not matter. That your freely given mandate can be trampled without consequence.

I feel your pain. I share your anger. And I will never forget your courage.”

Ighodalo’s statement has stirred mixed reactions, with many of his supporters lauding his courage while others have called for calm and reflection.

The Supreme Court's ruling brings an end to the legal dispute surrounding the 2024 governorship election, solidifying the victory of the opposing candidate—though controversy appears far from over in the court of public opinion.