Edo Governorship Tribunal to Deliver Judgment in Ighodalo vs. Okpebholo Case

The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal is scheduled to deliver its judgment today in the case filed by Asue Ighodalo of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), challenging the outcome of the September 21, 2024, governorship election. The tribunal, led by Justice Wilfred Kpochi, reserved judgment on March 3 after all parties involved presented their final written addresses. ​

Background of the Petition

Ighodalo and the PDP are contesting the declaration of Governor Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the election winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). They allege that the election was marred by irregularities and non-compliance with the Electoral Act, 2022. The petitioners presented 19 witnesses and submitted various documents, including election result sheets and BVAS reports, to support their claims. In contrast, the APC called four witnesses, while INEC did not present any witnesses. ​

Recent Developments

In a related development, the tribunal dismissed a petition filed by the Action Alliance (AA) and its National Chairman, Adekunle Rufai Omoaje, seeking to nullify Okpebholo's election. The tribunal ruled that the petition lacked merit, stating that the issues raised were pre-election matters beyond its jurisdiction. ​

Additionally, leaked copies of an unsigned document, purported to be the tribunal's judgment, have surfaced online, causing controversy. The PDP has dismissed these leaked judgments, emphasizing the importance of awaiting the official ruling. ​

Awaited Judgment

Supporters from both the PDP and APC have gathered in Abuja, awaiting the tribunal's decision. The judgment will determine whether INEC's declaration of Okpebholo as the winner stands or if the election results are invalidated due to alleged irregularities. The tribunal's ruling is anticipated to have significant political implications for Edo State.