By Ogochukwu Isioma
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has welcomed Wednesday’s judgement by the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, affirming his victory as the duly elected governor in the September 21, 2024 Edo governorship election.
The Tribunal, after examination of the petitions brought forward by the opposition, dismissed all claims, and held that the election was conducted in compliance with the Electoral Act and that Governor Okpebholo was duly elected.
Reacting, Governor Okpebholo, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, said the tribunal’s decision “validates the overwhelming support demonstrated by the citizens and residents of Edo State during the election.”
“It reaffirms the integrity of our democratic process and stands as a testament to the will of the people,” the governor added.
Governor Okpebholo expressed profound gratitude to the Tribunal for their diligence and fairness, while extending his sincere appreciation to the people of Edo for their unwavering support and belief in his vision for a prosperous and united state.
“This victory is not mine alone, but a victory for every citizen and residen of Edo State. It is a mandate to continue the work we have started, to build a state where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We remain committed to our promise of good governance, transparency, and inclusive development,” the governor noted.
He called on all citizens, including the opposition and candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Asue Ighodalo, to join hands in the spirit of unity and work together for the progress of Edo State.
“It is time to put aside partisan differences and focus on the common goal of building a better future for our State,” Governor Okpebholo noted.
He said his administration remains focused on delivering on its campaign promises and will not be distracted by frivolous litigation. “The administration is committed to serving the people of Edo State with dedication and integrity,” the statement concluded.
The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, in three respective judgments on Wednesday, dismissed the petition filed by the PDP, Action Alliance and Accord Party, and affirmed Senator Okpebholo as the duly elected governor of Edo.
The tribunal held that the PDP failed to call witnesses to prove its case of overvoting, and that the party failed to call polling unit agents from all the polling units where they had alleged electoral irregularities.
The tribunal added that out of the 19 witnesses called by the petitioners, 14 of them were ward and local government agents and the star witness who claimed to be a director of strategy for the PDP played no role in the conduct of the election.
It also added that the BVAS tendered by the petitioners were dumped on the tribunal. The petition was thereafter dismissed by the three-man tribunal for lacking in merit.
