APC, PDP Dismiss Leaked Judgment as Tribunal Rules Today

APC, PDP Dismiss Judgment Leak as Edo Governorship Tribunal Rules Today

ABUJA — The All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have both dismissed as fake the leaked copies of the purported judgment of the Edo State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal. The tribunal is set to deliver its official judgment today, April 2, 2025, on the petition filed by the PDP and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, challenging the victory of APC’s Governor Monday Okpebholo in the September 21, 2024 governorship election.

Details of the Leaked Judgment

1. Split Decision:
   • The leaked document, which surfaced online on April 1, 2025, suggests a split decision among the tribunal justices. Justices Wilfred Kpochi and A. B. Yusuf allegedly ruled in favor of Governor Okpebholo, while Justice A. A. Adewole dissented, declaring Ighodalo the winner.
   • The leaked document indicates that Justices Kpochi and Yusuf dismissed the petitioners’ claims, stating that while there were irregularities in the election, they were not substantial enough to affect the outcome.
2. Authenticity Concerns:
   • Both the APC and PDP have questioned the authenticity of the leaked document, with each party accusing the other of orchestrating the leak for political gain.
   • The APC Publicity Director, Bala Ibrahim, claimed that the PDP leaked a fake judgment, knowing they would lose. In contrast, the PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, accused the APC of using the leaked fake document to gauge public reaction.

Tribunal Proceedings

• Final Arguments: The tribunal reserved its judgment on March 3, 2025, after parties adopted their final written addresses.
• Today’s Ruling: The tribunal announced that the judgment would be delivered on April 2, 2025, bringing an end to speculation and controversy surrounding the leaked documents.

Public Reaction

• Nationwide Interest: The leaked judgment has sparked intense debate and speculation across Nigeria, with many questioning its authenticity and implications for the political landscape in Edo State.
• Social Media Debate: The controversy has fueled discussions on social media, with supporters of both parties expressing optimism about their chances of winning the tribunal’s decision.

Parties’ Confidence in Victory

• APC’s Confidence: The APC expressed confidence in winning the tribunal’s judgment, citing a strong case and effective legal representation.
• PDP’s Optimism: The PDP also expressed optimism, stating that they had presented a solid case backed by evidence and were hopeful that the tribunal would rule in their favor.

Conclusion

The dismissal of the leaked judgment by both parties highlights the tension and anticipation surrounding the official ruling. As the tribunal delivers its verdict today, it will determine the legitimacy of Governor Okpebholo’s tenure and set a precedent for future electoral challenges in Nigeria.