Gov Okphebholo offers ‘political amnesty’  to PDP’s Ighodalo after legal victory

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has extended what he termed an “unconditional political amnesty” to Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the 2024 governorship election.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Fred Itua, the governor said the offer was a demonstration of genuine political sportsmanship, noting that Ighodalo has reportedly been abandoned by key figures in his political circle since losing the election.

“I want to publicly invite Mr. Asue Ighodalo to join us in the APC so that, together, we can advance the cause of development in our dear State. Since his vision aligns with what we are already doing through God’s help, we believe he still has a role to play,” Okpebholo said.

He went on to allege that Ighodalo had been politically isolated following the election loss.

“Godwin Obaseki, who lured Asue Ighodalo to come and run for elections, is hiding in the United States of America. Half of Obaseki’s cabinet members who regarded Ighodalo as their own personal vending machine have all deserted him and are hiding abroad,” the statement claimed.

“As a brother who truly cares for Ighodalo’s wellbeing, I believe that this political amnesty will save him from this humiliation and loneliness. As a people, we have a task of ensuring that we continue to develop Edo State, protect our people, and work hard to re-elect President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027. Asue Ighodalo can be useful in these key areas,” the governor added.

Okpebholo emphasized the need to put aside past political rivalries and work toward unity, stressing that his gesture is aimed at promoting reconciliation and healing the divisions that followed the fiercely contested election.

According to the governor’s office, the move is intended to create a peaceful political atmosphere in Edo State and chart a collective course for development.