Ighodalo noted his significant contributions, "I worked with Adams Oshiomhole during his gubernatorial tenure from 2008 to 2016, and subsequently with Governor Obaseki, who will conclude his term in 2024."

Identifying himself as a genuine Edo citizen from Ewohimi in Edo Central, Ighodalo clarified that he is not aligned with any particular individual but is prepared to utilize his wealth of experience as the chairman of various companies once elected.

As the chairman of Alaghodaro Summit, he said he aspires to serve Edo state and its citizen with the aim of strengthening the state economically through various sectors and uplifting people from poverty.

He also cited the importance of essential infrastructures such as good roads, access to clean water, quality healthcare, and education.

While acknowledging the challenging shift from the private sector to politics, he asserted his readiness to take on the demanding role and highlighted the importance of integrity in fulfilling the responsibilities of public service.

Ighodalo said, “I am here to serve the state and I can say I am the best man for the job. I hear people saying I am someone’s candidate but I can tell you that I am nobody’s candidate. All I will do is to bring my experience to bear having been chairman of several top companies.

“It was a tough decision resigning from those positions. I’m coming from a comfort zone and you put all of that down to say you want to do things for your people. I have the ability to do things for many more people having done for fewer people in the corporate world.

“All of the experience and connections I have had over the years would be brought to bear. I am committed and convinced that I can do it. It looks uncertain but even it will be certain in God’s name.

“I pledge to give youths the opportunity to serve in my government because the youths have talents to build the state. Be assured that I am fully committed to the uplift of our state and I  will give my life to ensure that.”