The Edo Gubernatorial Election Petition Tribunal, convened in Abuja, expressed dissatisfaction with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, for their failure to produce witnesses during a scheduled hearing.
The tribunal had set aside the day to address the PDP’s petition, which seeks to overturn the results of the governorship election that took place on September 21, 2024.
Justice Wilfred Kpochi, who heads the three-member tribunal, admonished the petitioners for what he described as a waste of the tribunal’s time. “Why did we ask other petitioners to take new dates if you weren’t prepared to present your witnesses?” Kpochi questioned, highlighting the tribunal’s frustration with the situation.
In response, the PDP’s legal representative, Adetunji Oyeyipo, cited travel disruptions faced by many of their witnesses and requested an extension to allow for their appearance. Oyeyipo assured the tribunal of their commitment to adequately prepare their witnesses for the next session.
Earlier in the proceedings, Oseyili Anenih, a witness for the PDP, testified regarding the party’s challenge of results from 765 out of 4,519 polling units in Edo State.
Anenih asserted that a proper tally of lawful votes would have resulted in Ighodalo being declared the winner of the election.
The tribunal has adjourned the case until Thursday, providing the PDP with an opportunity to present their remaining witnesses.
The respondents in this case include the All Progressives Congress (APC), Governor Monday Okpebholo, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The PDP’s petition alleges violations of the Electoral Act and other irregularities, contending that Governor Okpebholo did not receive the highest number of valid votes required for his declaration as the winner.
