Edo PDP Condemns Tribunal Judgment

Edo PDP Condemns Tribunal Judgment, Heads to Appeal Court

BENIN CITY — The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has strongly condemned the judgment of the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, which upheld the victory of Governor Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The tribunal, led by Justice Wilfred Kpochi, dismissed the PDP’s petition, citing insufficient evidence to overturn the election results. The PDP has vowed to challenge the ruling at the Court of Appeal, maintaining that its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, won the September 21, 2024, election.

Tribunal’s Ruling

1. Split Decision:
   • The three-man panel ruled that Governor Okpebholo polled the highest number of valid votes and was duly elected. Justices Kpochi and A.B. Yusuf aligned to uphold Okpebholo’s victory, while Justice A.A. Adewole dissented, declaring Ighodalo the winner.
   • The tribunal found that while there were irregularities in the election, they were not substantial enough to affect the outcome.
2. PDP’s Claims:
   • The PDP argued that the tribunal failed to uphold overwhelming evidence of vote manipulation and illegal cancellation of valid votes, which they claimed robbed them of victory.
   • The party described the ruling as a “miscarriage of justice” and a betrayal of public trust.

PDP’s Reaction

• National Publicity Secretary’s Statement:
  PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba stated that the party would proceed to the Court of Appeal for a thorough judicial review, expressing optimism that the appellate court would restore what they described as the “people’s mandate.”
  • The PDP urged its supporters to remain steadfast and not lose faith in the judiciary.

Supporters’ Reactions

1. Mixed Reactions in Edo State:
   • While some supporters expressed disappointment and frustration with the tribunal’s decision, others remained hopeful that the Court of Appeal would overturn the ruling.
   • The Edo PDP chapter is awaiting the Certified True Copy of the judgment before making further decisions.
2. Call for Unity:
   • Former PDP chieftain Aslem Ojezua, now with the APC, called on Ighodalo to congratulate Okpebholo and join hands in addressing state issues.
   • Chief Dan Orbih, PDP National Vice Chairman (South-South), emphasized the need to rebuild the party in Edo State following the election setback.

Implications for Edo Politics

1. Continued Legal Battle:
   • The decision to appeal sets the stage for a prolonged legal battle, which could further polarize Edo State’s political landscape.
   • The PDP’s determination to challenge the ruling reflects ongoing tensions between the APC and PDP in the state.
2. Governor Okpebholo’s Assurance:
   • Despite the legal challenges, Governor Okpebholo has assured Edo State residents of continued development and stability, urging all parties to work together for the state’s progress.

Conclusion

The Edo PDP’s rejection of the tribunal judgment and decision to appeal highlights the contentious nature of the election and the ongoing political tensions in Edo State. As the legal battle moves to the Court of Appeal, it remains to be seen whether the appellate court will uphold or overturn the tribunal’s ruling.