The All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have declared their readiness for a legal showdown as the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal begins hearings on petitions challenging the results of the September 21, 2024, election.
Naija News reports that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared Senator Monday Okpebholo of the APC as the winner of the election, with Dr. Asue Ighodalo of the PDP as the runner-up. Okpebholo secured 291,667 votes, while Ighodalo garnered 247,274 votes. The Labour Party candidate, Olumide Akpata, trailed with 22,763 votes.
However, the PDP and its candidate rejected the outcome, alleging widespread manipulation. They filed a petition at the tribunal seeking to overturn the results.
Ahead of the tribunal’s pre-hearing session today, Edo PDP Caretaker Chairman Tony Aziegbemi called for an impartial review of the evidence presented, The PUNCH reports.
“We trust the judiciary to examine the evidence dispassionately and deliver justice. Our lawyers are ready to prove that the election was stolen by the APC,” Aziegbemi stated. “The evidence overwhelmingly supports our case, and we are confident in a fair outcome.”
Conversely, the APC expressed confidence in defending its victory. APC Publicity Secretary Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigie affirmed the party’s preparedness, highlighting the strength of its legal team and the integrity of the tribunal.
“We are fully prepared to respond to the PDP’s petition. Our legal team consists of some of the best minds, and we are ready to expose any prejudicial actions by the PDP,” Uwadiae-Igbinigie said. “This tribunal comprises individuals with proven integrity, and we believe they will uphold justice.”
He added, “Edo people will see that the PDP has lost electoral relevance in the state, while the APC remains committed to delivering programs that improve the lives of our citizens.”
The tribunal, chaired by Justice Wilfred Kpochi, is set to hear seven petitions, including one from the PDP seeking to nullify the election and declare Ighodalo as the rightful winner.
Other petitioners, such as the Accord Party, Social Democratic Party, and Allied Peoples Movement, have also challenged the results, naming INEC, Okpebholo, and the APC as respondents.