As tensions mount ahead of the Edo State gubernatorial election scheduled for tomorrow, Saturday, September 21, 2024, a new controversy has erupted following the circulation of a forged letter purporting to announce the withdrawal of Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), from the race.
The letter, allegedly written by the Edo State Chairman of the PDP, Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, surfaced on social media platforms earlier today.
The document letter falsely claims that Ighodalo is stepping down from the contest, throwing the electoral process into disarray.
Meanwhile, multiple investigations have revealed that the letter is fake and was reportedly distributed by individuals aligned with the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The letter, which bears the forged signature of Dr. Aziegbemi, claims that the PDP’s decision to withdraw its candidate is due to suspicions that the election would not be free and fair.
In a swift response, Dr. Aziegbemi publicly refuted the letter, describing it as an act of desperation by opponents who are trying to confuse and mislead the electorate in a last-minute attempt to tilt the electoral balance.
Aziegbemiy stated that Dr. Asue Ighodalo remains the PDP’s flagbearer in the election and is fully committed to the race.
He condemned the APC for resorting to dirty tactics in a bid to disrupt the election, adding that the letter does not represent the views or position of the PDP in Edo State.
Dr. Aziegbemi, along with other PDP leaders, also called on law enforcement agencies to investigate the origin of the letter and bring the culprits to justice.
The Edo State PDP leadership has also urged the electorate to disregard the fake letter and maintain focus on the election, reassuring voters of their candidate’s commitment to addressing the state’s pressing needs.
“The timing of this forged letter is no coincidence. It’s clear that the APC is using any means possible to destabilize our campaign.
“This is a calculated attempt to sow confusion and cast doubt over our candidate’s chances. But we know the people of Edo will see through this charade,” a PDP official said.