Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the last governorship election in Edo State, Asue Ighodalo, to accept Thursday’s appellate court judgment that affirmed Governor Monday Okpebholo’s electoral victory.
Wike, a prominent PDP chieftain, advised Ighodalo to allow “sleeping dogs lie” in the collective interest of Edo State, urging all stakeholders to respect the court’s decision and move forward for the sake of development and unity.
The FCT Minister made the remarks in a statement on Wednesday through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka.
He congratulated Governor Okpebholo on the affirmation of his mandate and encouraged him to remain focused on delivering democratic dividends to the people.
“I have watched him since he assumed office and I can say that he has been doing well for Edo State and its people,” Wike noted. “For me, I believe in him, and I am confident that his government will have a sustainable impact on Edo State.”
Wike further described the judgment as “a confirmation of the genuine mandate freely given to Governor Okpebholo by the people of Edo State,” and urged the governor to stay committed to good governance and the upliftment of his people.
The Appeal Court ruling marks a significant milestone in the post-election legal process following the September 21, 2024, governorship election in Edo State, which had been fiercely contested.
