The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in Abuja has affirmed the election of Governor Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), where it sets aside the petition filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate – Asue Ighodalo. The tribunal ruled that the petitioners were unable to present reliable evidence to authorize annulling the September 21, 2024 election results.
Governor Okpebholo, in his reaction offered a hand of resolution to Ighodalo, urging him to work together for the state’s development. However, Ighodalo has rejected the ruling—pledging to challenge it at the Court of Appeal. In a statement, he described the judgment as a “travesty of justice” and reaffirmed his determination to defending the people’s mandate.
In the meantime, Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua asserted that the governor dedicated the victory to Edo residents—vowing to remain focused on governance. The tribunal’s decision has ignited political reactions, with PDP chieftain Bode George criticizing the ruling, while FCT Minister Nyesom Wike congratulated Okpebholo, advising him to stay determined to governance.
