The Edo Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal has officially announced its move from Benin City to Abuja, effective Monday. This decision was communicated through a notice issued by the tribunal’s secretary, Mua’azu Bagudu, on Friday.
In the statement, Bagudu informed all parties involved in the ongoing election petitions that the tribunal will now convene at the National Judicial Institute located on Airport Road, Abuja.
“I am directed to notify all parties that the governorship election petition tribunal sitting in Benin City has been relocated to Abuja,” he stated.
Those engaged in the proceedings have been encouraged to reach out to Bagudu directly at 08037200013 for any inquiries related to the relocation.
According to a reliable source within the court system, the relocation order stemmed from the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem. The source, who requested anonymity, highlighted growing concerns regarding safety and security in Benin City following recent incidents.
Notably, a suspected political thug was reported to have discharged a firearm in the vicinity of the court on January 15, allegedly demanding the return of what he claimed was “our mandate.”
The announcement of the tribunal’s relocation comes shortly after critical testimony was provided by a data forensic expert presented by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and its gubernatorial candidate for the 2024 election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo.
The PDP, along with Ighodalo, are the petitioners contesting the declaration of Gov. Monday Okpebholo as the winner of the recent election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
This movement to the national capital underscores the ongoing challenges facing the electoral process in Edo State and the measures taken to ensure a secure environment for the legal proceedings.
