In a statement to the press on Monday, Ogbeide Ifaluyi-Isibor, a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), conveyed his optimism regarding the impending judgment from the Edo Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in Abuja.
The tribunal has reserved its decision on the petition submitted by Dr. Asue Ighodalo and the PDP, challenging the outcome of the September 2024 Edo governorship election.
The petitioners, Ighodalo and the PDP, are calling for the reversal of the victory awarded to the incumbent, Okpebholo, citing significant irregularities and breaches of electoral laws during the election process.
Ifaluyi-Isibor, who previously served as the Commissioner for Digital Economy in Edo, expressed confidence in the tribunal proceedings, indicating that the case presented by the petitioners was robust. “The petitioners are pleased with the proceedings of the court so far. Our counsel effectively demonstrated that testimonies given by witnesses were in consonance with our prayers,” he stated.
The PDP’s case hinges on allegations of overvoting and inaccuracies in result collation across various polling units. Ifaluyi-Isibor highlighted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) did not adhere to its own guidelines, which is a central component of their argument.
He remarked, “We are contesting results in 756 polling units out of over 4,000 in the state. Our arguments before the tribunal were clear, and we believe that we have sufficiently substantiated our claims.”
He also pointed out that the strength of an election petition should not be judged solely by the quantity of witnesses, citing precedents from the Supreme Court that emphasize the importance of substantial evidence.
As the tribunal’s decision is awaited, Ifaluyi-Isibor confirmed that the PDP remains hopeful for a ruling in their favor, reinforcing their commitment to ensuring a fair electoral process in Edo State.
