Kehinde Fajobi
The highly anticipated start of the Edo State Election Petition Tribunal was unexpectedly postponed today after the 1st and 2nd respondents, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Governor Monday Okpebholo, requested an adjournment.
The respondents sought the delay, citing a conflicting Supreme Court hearing scheduled for January 14, 2025, in Abuja.
During the tribunal’s opening session, the Assistant Secretary read out the adjournment application, highlighting the respondents’ inability to proceed due to prior commitments.
While the petitioners’ legal team expressed concerns over the short notice—having only been informed on January 12, 2025—they ultimately agreed to the adjournment request, with the condition that no further delays would be sought to hinder the tribunal’s proceedings.
The hearing will now reconvene on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, unless further interruptions arise.
Outside the court, Goodluck Osaretin, a member of the PDP, expressed his dissatisfaction, saying, “This smacks of delay tactics, just like their earlier attempts to prevent our inspection of the BVAS machines.
“Still, we are confident in Barrister Asue’s experienced legal team. They may delay justice, but they cannot deny it.
“The APC colluded with INEC to rig this election, and we are here to reclaim our stolen mandate.”
Representatives from both INEC and Governor Okpebholo’s camp were unavailable for comment.