Edo State Celebrates Okpebholo Tribunal Victory

Edo State Celebrates Okpebholo Tribunal Victory

Benin City, the capital of Edo State, was abuzz with excitement as Governor Monday Okpebholo and Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa returned from Abuja following the affirmation of their electoral victory by the election petition tribunal. The tribunal, on Wednesday, upheld their win in the gubernatorial election held on September 21, 2024….READ MORE….

The governor, accompanied by Idahosa, Secretary to the State Government Musa Ikhilor, and other top officials, visited the palace of the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II, to express gratitude for his support and prayers.

Arriving from the airport in a motorcade, Okpebholo acknowledged the enthusiastic reception from residents. During his visit to the palace, he conveyed his appreciation to the Oba and the people of Edo State for their continued support and prayers. The governor also commended the tribunal judges for their unanimous decision, which he described as a reflection of the truth presented by all parties involved.

Addressing the monarch, Okpebholo stated, “I am here to inform Your Majesty that the election petition issues have been resolved. The tribunal dismissed the cases brought against the APC by three opposition parties, affirming my status as the duly elected governor of Edo State. I am immensely grateful for the love, prayers, and support shown by Your Majesty and the people of Edo.”

In response, Oba Ewuare II praised the governor’s efforts in steering the state towards development and expressed satisfaction with the tribunal’s judgment, describing it as a victory for the Edo people. The monarch offered personal prayers for Okpebholo, a rare gesture that highlighted the strong bond between the palace and the governor.

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) lauded the tribunal’s verdict, describing it as a reaffirmation of the people’s will. National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka stated that the judgment validated the overwhelming support for Governor Okpebholo and demonstrated the judiciary’s commitment to upholding democracy.

However, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) expressed dissatisfaction with the tribunal’s decision and vowed to appeal. PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba described the ruling as a miscarriage of justice, asserting that the evidence presented clearly indicated their candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, as the rightful winner. The party reiterated its commitment to pursuing the case at the Court of Appeal, confident that justice would eventually prevail.