Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the 2024 Edo State governorship election, has criticized Senator Monday Okpebholo over his remarks on a national television program, claiming that “they are mopping up money to go and bribe tribunal people” is a thoughtless and false statement aimed at blackmailing the judiciary.
In a statement signed by Erhabor Emokpae in Benin City, Ighodalo described Okpebholo’s allegations as “deeply irresponsible,” asserting that they represent a desperate attempt to intimidate the judiciary and undermine public confidence in a legal process that may not favor him.
Ighodalo stated, “Let it be stated unequivocally: there is no truth to Okpebholo’s insinuation. It is a blatant lie, and he knows it. The tribunal members understand that no such attempt has been made, would be made, nor could it ever succeed.” He accused Okpebholo of trying to pre-emptively discredit any unfavorable judgment by making reckless claims.
He further condemned the attempt to undermine the integrity of the Election Petition Tribunal, labeling it a brazen attack aimed at eroding public trust in legal institutions. “It is troubling that a respondent in an ongoing case would seek to undermine the integrity of the judicial panel with such baseless accusations,” he added.
Ighodalo criticized Okpebholo for relying on innuendo and divine invocation to support his claims, questioning his respect for the judiciary. “Senator Okpebholo must be aware that his comments on our case, as a respondent, are deeply sub judice.”
He called for condemnation of Okpebholo’s actions, stating that democracy is about respecting the will of the people and the rule of law. “Edo State deserves better. Nigeria deserves better. The judiciary must not allow itself to be dragged into the mud by those who think they are above the law,” Ighodalo emphasized.
In light of the ongoing legal proceedings, he urged that the tribunal focus on facts and the law, rather than responding to baseless accusations.
