The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, currently sitting at the National Judicial Institute (NJI) in Abuja, has scheduled Wednesday, April 2, 2025, to deliver judgment on the petition challenging the outcome of the September 21, 2024, governorship election.
The petition was filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, who is contesting the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo. According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Okpebholo won the election with 291,667 votes, while Ighodalo secured 247,274 votes.
The tribunal, led by Justice Wilfred Kpochi, relocated its proceedings from Benin City to Abuja in January 2025 due to security and logistical concerns. Throughout the hearings, the petitioners presented 19 witnesses, including a data analyst who alleged electoral malpractice, such as over-voting and result discrepancies. INEC did not present any witnesses, while Okpebholo and the APC called one and four witnesses, respectively. After final arguments, the tribunal reserved judgment on March 3, 2025.
With the judgment date now set, political observers, party supporters, and the general public are anticipating the outcome, which could have significant implications for the leadership of Edo State. A ruling in favor of the PDP could lead to a rerun or a new declaration, while a verdict upholding Okpebholo’s election would confirm his mandate. The decision is expected to shape the political landscape of the state in the coming months.
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