The All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have expressed confidence in their legal teams as the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal begins hearings on the September 21, 2024, election outcome.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared APC’s Senator Monday Okpebholo winner with 291,667 votes, defeating PDP’s Dr. Asue Ighodalo, who secured 247,274 votes, and Labour Party’s Olumide Akpata, who polled 22,763 votes.
Rejecting the result, Ighodalo and the PDP alleged widespread manipulation and filed a petition seeking to overturn the outcome. Six other political parties, including the Accord Party, Social Democratic Party, and Allied Peoples Movement, also submitted petitions challenging the results.
Speaking ahead of Monday’s pre-hearing session, Edo PDP Caretaker Chairman Tony Aziegbemi emphasized the need for impartiality.
“Our lawyers will demonstrate clearly how the election was stolen by the APC. We trust the judiciary to examine the overwhelming evidence and deliver justice,” Aziegbemi said.
He called on the tribunal, chaired by Justice Wilfred Kpochi, to ensure its decision reflects fairness and integrity.
In response, APC Publicity Secretary Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigie expressed confidence in the tribunal and his party’s legal defense.
“We are prepared to meet the PDP in court. Our legal team has reviewed the petition and is ready to respond comprehensively,” he stated.
Uwadiae-Igbinigie also accused the PDP of diminishing electoral relevance in Edo, adding, “The APC is focused on delivering impactful governance to Edo people while addressing baseless allegations in court.”
The tribunal will hear seven petitions, with the PDP seeking to nullify the election and have Ighodalo declared the rightful winner. Other parties have filed similar petitions, naming INEC, Okpebholo, and the APC as respondents.
The legal battle promises to be closely watched, with both sides prepared to argue their cases vigorously as the tribunal examines the evidence.
