July 10, 2025 | Abuja — The Supreme Court of Nigeria is set to deliver its much-anticipated judgment on Thursday, July 10, in the legal tussle involving Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over the validity of their candidacies for the forthcoming Edo State governorship election.
The apex court’s decision is expected to bring final clarity to months of intense legal battles and political tension in Edo, as both candidates face internal party challenges that questioned the legitimacy of their primary elections.
Senator Okpebholo’s candidacy has been trailed by legal contestations over the conduct and outcome of the APC primary election, with aggrieved party members alleging irregularities and procedural flaws. On the other hand, Asue Ighodalo’s nomination under the PDP has also faced similar scrutiny, as factional disputes within the party challenged the process that produced him.
The legal wranglings moved through the lower courts, culminating in appeals to the Supreme Court, which now holds the final say. Political watchers, party stakeholders, and citizens of Edo State are keenly awaiting the judgment, which could reshape the political landscape ahead of the September 2025 governorship polls.
Security around the court premises is expected to be tight, given the sensitivity and public interest in the outcome. Analysts believe the ruling will not only determine the final ballot but also test the strength of internal democracy within Nigeria’s major political parties.
As tension mounts, both parties have urged their supporters to remain calm and respect the rule of law as the judiciary prepares to bring closure to the matter.
