BREAKING: Edo Election Petition Tribunal Relocates to Abuja

 

Combo of Asue Ighodalo and Monday Okpebholo

In a surprising turn of events, the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has been relocated from Benin City to Abuja. A notice dated January 24, 2025, and signed by Tribunal Secretary Mu’azu Bagudu informed parties to the case about the move.

The notice stated:
“I am directed to notify all parties that the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Benin City, Edo State, has been relocated to Abuja at the National Judicial Institute (NJI), Airport Road, Abuja, effective from Monday, 27th January, 2025.”

Although the notice did not provide reasons for the relocation, the decision follows a series of troubling security incidents.

The tribunal's first hearing on January 15, 2025, in Benin City was marred by chaos as gunshots disrupted proceedings. Hoodlums were reportedly seen outside the venue, creating a tense atmosphere that left attendees scrambling for safety.

The tribunal is hearing petitions challenging the outcome of the September 21, 2024, governorship election, in which the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate Monday Okpebholo was declared the winner with 291,667 votes. His closest rival, Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), received 247,274 votes, while the Labour Party’s Olumide Akpata garnered 22,763 votes.

The shooting incident has further deepened political tensions, with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the  South-South states trading accusations over responsibility for the violence. Both parties have been vocal in condemning the disruptions, yet neither has taken accountability for the incident.

As the tribunal resumes on January 27, all eyes remain on the outcome of the petitions, which could significantly impact Edo State’s political landscape.