Kehinde Fajobi
The Edo Governorship Election Petition Tribunal commenced today in Benin City, with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) gearing up for a pivotal legal contest over the September 21 gubernatorial election.
The PDP candidate, Asue Ighodalo, is contesting the victory of APC’s Governor Monday Okpebholo, alleging widespread irregularities in the election process.
The party claims the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) colluded with the APC to manipulate the outcome.
Allegations include non-compliance with the Electoral Act, inflated votes for the APC, and unlawful cancellation of PDP votes in key areas.
PDP spokesperson Barrister Tony Ehilebo expressed optimism, stating, “We have presented overwhelming evidence to prove that the election was rigged.
“We are confident the tribunal will restore the mandate stolen from the people of Edo and reaffirm the integrity of our democracy.”
The APC has dismissed the allegations as unfounded. Chief Alex Okosun, an APC chieftain, described the legal challenge as “sacrilegious,” urging Ighodalo to accept the results.
“Politicians must stop litigating every election. Asue is Sen. Monday Okpebholo’s Esan brother. He should let bygones be bygones and join the Governor to move Edo forward. We have finally gotten an Esan governor; that is the main thing,” Okosun said.
As the tribunal begins its hearings, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for governance in Edo State and the credibility of Nigeria’s judicial system.