The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal is set to commence full hearings on January 15, 2025, as the controversy surrounding the September 21, 2024, governorship election continues to heat up.
The decision to adjourn the case came after a request from the lead counsel for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Governor Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the 1st and 2nd respondents in the matter.
Justice Wilfred Kpochi, who heads the tribunal, granted the postponement during the tribunal’s session in Benin City on January 13, 2025. The Assistant Secretary of the tribunal, Dayo Dahunsi, disclosed that the adjournment was necessary as the respondents’ lead counsel was scheduled to appear before the Supreme Court the following day for a separate case.
Background of the Dispute
The petition was filed by Dr. Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who is challenging the declaration of Governor Okpebholo as the winner of the 2024 governorship election. INEC had announced that Okpebholo secured 291,667 votes, defeating Ighodalo, who garnered 247,274 votes. However, the PDP and its candidate alleged irregularities in the election process, prompting the legal battle.
Dr. Ighodalo, who served as a former commissioner in Edo State, has described the election as “fraught with manipulation and discrepancies.” The PDP contends that the APC leveraged its influence to skew the results in its favor.
Legal Maneuvering
During the January 13 session, Oladipo Oshinowo, representing the PDP’s lead counsel, Ken Mozia, did not oppose the adjournment request but expressed concerns over potential delays.
“We are ready and prepared to commence trials today,” Oshinowo stated. “However, we received a late notification of the request for adjournment. On this basis, we are constrained to concede to this request, with the understanding that no further delays will be entertained in the future.”
Josephine Ogagaworia, lead counsel for the APC, also did not oppose the adjournment. With no objections from any party, Justice Kpochi rescheduled the hearing for January 15, emphasizing the need for prompt proceedings.
The Stakes for Both Parties
Governor Okpebholo, who assumed office amidst widespread criticism, faces mounting pressure to validate his mandate. His administration has been accused of benefiting from a flawed electoral process, a claim he has vehemently denied.
On the other hand, Dr. Ighodalo and the PDP are banking on the tribunal to overturn the election results. The party has called for the cancellation of the declared results, citing alleged voter suppression, discrepancies in result collation, and other irregularities.
Political analysts note that the case is a litmus test for Nigeria’s electoral integrity. “The outcome of this tribunal could have far-reaching implications for governance and the judiciary’s role in upholding democratic principles,” said a political commentator in Benin City.
Past Developments
The tribunal initially adjourned the matter on December 21, 2024, following the conclusion of pre-hearing sessions. At the time, Justice Kpochi assured all parties that the tribunal would prioritize the case due to its significance.
The PDP has maintained a strong presence in the state, and many of its supporters have voiced their dissatisfaction with the election outcome. Protests erupted in parts of Edo State following INEC’s announcement of Okpebholo as the winner, with demonstrators demanding transparency and justice.
