The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Edo State, Asue Ighodalo, has stated that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, lacks the authority to influence the outcome of the forthcoming Edo governorship election.

Ighodalo made the declaration in response to Wike’s recent statement claiming he would not back Ighodalo in the September 21 gubernatorial election.

Ighodalo addressed the matter during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday.

Wike revealed in an earlier interview on Friday that Governor Godwin Obaseki had visited him twice with Ighodalo to solicit his support for the PDP candidate in the upcoming election.

Reacting to Wike’s comments, Ighodalo expressed disappointment, stressing that Wike’s account did not fully capture the outcome of their earlier discussions.

He stated that the decision of who becomes the next governor of Edo State ultimately rests with the people of the state and not with political figures.

His words: “Sometimes, when gentlemen talk in some kind of privacy or arrangements, we don’t voice out what has been said. But it is not correct that Governor Wike said he wasn’t going to support us. That’s incorrect.

“Events may have overtaken his decision at that point, and he is free to change his mind.”

Ighodalo reiterated that their earlier discussions with Wike had focused on governance and the future of Edo State.

According to him, Wike had indicated that he would not interfere in the state’s affairs, and the decision about its next governor would be left to Edo’s citizens.

“I believe, as a gentleman, he would adhere to the word he gave me. But if he changed his mind, so be it. When he and I spoke, we deliberated on issues around fair governance, and how we can create a better country and Edo State.

“At the end of the day, we ended the conversation at a point where Wike said he would mind his business, and Edo State is not part of his business.

“If he has decided to change his mind, that’s fine. But the decision as to who becomes the next governor of Edo State is the decision of the people. It is not his or anybody else’s to make,” Ighodalo said.

He made it clear that no governor, minister, or political figure has the authority to impose a candidate on the people.

“Whether you are a governor or a minister, it is only Edo citizens and residents who have their PVCs who can take that decision with the support of God Almighty. I fear no man; I only fear God,” Ighodalo declared.

Ighodalo also vowed to accept the outcome of the election, provided it is conducted fairly.

“Honestly, if we lose this election and we know we’ve lost it fairly and squarely, I will be the first to concede. But I know we can’t lose this election if there is a level playing field for everybody,” he stated.

“We have related with the people of Edo State and told them what we plan to do for them. They trust us and will vote for us. All the polls and indicators (seen so far) support us. So I have no fear,” Ighodalo added.