The political landscape of Edo State witnessed a significant event during the 2024 gubernatorial election. The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) presented Asue Ighodalo as its candidate, aiming to continue its governance in the state. This topic delves into Ighodalo’s background, his emergence as the PDP candidate, the election proceedings, and the aftermath.
Background of Asue Ighodalo
Asue Ighodalo, aged 64 during the election, hails from Okaigben, Ewohimi, in Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo State. He is a distinguished lawyer and businessman, co-founding Banwo & Ighodalo, a leading corporate law firm in Nigeria. His expertise spans corporate finance, capital markets, and mergers and acquisitions, positioning him as a prominent figure in the corporate sector.
Emergence as PDP Candidate
The PDP conducted its primary election on February 22, 2024. Asue Ighodalo secured the party’s nomination with an overwhelming majority, obtaining 99.83% of the votes. This victory, however, was accompanied by internal party challenges, including a parallel primary that attempted to nominate the incumbent deputy governor, Philip Shaibu.
Election Campaign and Promises
During his campaign, Ighodalo emphasized the need for state and local government police forces to enhance security within Edo State. He articulated a vision aimed at driving sustainable development and progress, leveraging his corporate experience to propose transformative policies for the state.
Election Results
The gubernatorial election took place on September 21, 2024. The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, was declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on September 22, 2024. Okpebholo secured 291,667 votes, while Ighodalo garnered 247,274 votes, placing him in second position.
Reactions and Controversies
Following the announcement of the results, the PDP, along with Governor Godwin Obaseki, raised allegations of electoral malpractices, accusing INEC of favoring the APC. The PDP also expressed concerns about the arrest of its members during the election period, leading to protests at the collation center.
Asue Ighodalo’s candidacy in the 2024 Edo State gubernatorial election highlighted the PDP’s efforts to maintain its political influence in the state. Despite his extensive corporate background and a campaign focused on transformative policies, the election results favored the APC’s candidate. The aftermath of the election underscored the complexities and challenges inherent in the state’s political dynamics.
