Edo Governorship Tribunal Reserves Judgment in PDP, Ighodalo’s Petition Against Gov. Okpebholo

Edo Governorship Tribunal Reserves Judgment in PDP, Ighodalo’s Petition Against Gov. Okpebholo

The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has reserved judgment in the petition filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, challenging the victory of Governor Monday Okpebholoin the September 21, 2024, governorship election.

The tribunal, led by Justice Wilfred Kpochi, stated that a judgment date would be communicated later. At the hearing, legal teams presented their final arguments, with the respondents maintaining that the election was conducted in compliance with the Electoral Act, while the petitioners insisted on irregularities.

INEC’s Counsel, Kanu Agabi, SAN, argued that the petition lacked merit, as the PDP neither called for a fresh election nor presented alternative results proving their victory. He pointed out that their evidence was based on a consultant’s analysis rather than actual polling unit data.

On behalf of Governor Okpebholo, Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN, dismissed the petition as an “academic exercise,” stating that the petitioners failed to substantiate their claims of over-voting. A key issue raised was that the BVAS machines were not opened for verification, further weakening the PDP’s argument.

APC’s Counsel, Emmanuel Ukala, SAN, further argued that the claims of non-compliance lacked sufficient proof. He noted that out of 4,000 polling units, only five polling unit agents testified, raising questions about the weight of the petition.

However, PDP’s Counsel, Ken Moze, SAN, countered that their case focused on 765 disputed polling units and that the number of polling unit agents called was irrelevant since their primary argument was about the collation process, not the voting itself. He also defended the certification of documents submitted.

As the tribunal prepares to deliver its ruling, all eyes are on the judiciary to ensure a fair and just outcome. The decision will be critical in shaping the post-election political landscape in Edo State. For now, the state remains governed under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, as the legal process runs its course.