Kehinde Fajobi
Tight security surrounded the Edo State High Court on Monday as the Edo Governorship Election Petition Tribunal commenced its inaugural sitting.
Justice Wilfred Kpochi, the tribunal chairman, called for cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure orderly proceedings.
“I am impressed by the conducive and calm environment I see today,” Kpochi said. “I ask that we keep this atmosphere going, and if anyone has concerns, please draw our attention to them. Let’s avoid shouting or unnecessary arguments.”
The tribunal is addressing a petition filed by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Asue Ighodalo, challenging the victory of Governor Monday Okpebholo in the September 21, 2024, election.
Other parties, including the Accord Party, Allied Peoples Movement, Action Democratic Party, Zenith Labour Party, and Social Democratic Party, are also contesting the results.
Justice Kpochi, alongside panel members Justices AB Yusuf and AA Adewole, urged all parties to focus on the issues at hand to ensure a peaceful process.
Lead counsel for Ighodalo, Ken Mozia (SAN), assured the tribunal of his team’s cooperation, promising to advise supporters against unruly behaviour or unnecessary gatherings at the court.
Governor Okpebholo’s lead counsel, Oyinyechi Ikpazu (SAN), similarly pledged collaboration, calling for mutual understanding among all parties.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), represented by Benin Chapter Chairman Idemudia Osifo, pledged support for the tribunal but raised concerns over the limited courtroom space.
Justice Kpochi assured attendees the issue would be addressed.
Present in court were Ighodalo and Edo PDP chairman Hon. Tony Aziegbemi, while Governor Okpebholo was absent.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) was represented by State Legal Adviser Stephen Okoror and other party leaders, including former State House of Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. Fran Okiye.
The court adjourned pre-hearing proceedings to Wednesday, December 18, expecting all parties to finalise preliminary actions and agree on a hearing schedule.
Meanwhile, outside the courtroom, clashes erupted between supporters of different parties.
Reports indicated that some individuals wearing white fez caps and T-shirts with inscriptions engaged in heated disputes with others opposing their symbols, causing chaos as people fled in different directions.