Kehinde Fajobi
Gunfire erupted near the Edo State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal on Wednesday morning, sparking chaos and panic among those present.
The incident occurred at the Edo High Court Complex on Sapele Road, Benin, where the Justice Wilfred Kpochi-led three-member panel was sitting. Lawyers, litigants, politicians, and reporters fled for safety as stray bullets flew.
Swift intervention by armed security operatives restored order, allowing tribunal proceedings to resume.
Edo APC Chairman Jarret Tenebe condemned the violence, describing it as “deeply disturbing and unacceptable.”
He stated, “The tribunal is a sacred space where justice is meant to be administered impartially.
“Any act of violence within its walls undermines the very foundation of our legal system and threatens the safety of all involved.
“Regardless of political affiliation, resorting to violence to resolve disputes is never justifiable. We must all condemn the shootings in the strongest possible terms.”
Tenebe further emphasised that violence had no place in a civilised society, calling for those responsible to be swiftly brought to justice.
The tribunal is addressing petitions filed by seven political parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), and others, challenging the victory of Senator Monday Okpebholo of the APC.
Okpebholo was declared winner of the September 21, 2024, governorship election and was inaugurated on November 12.