From Godwin Tsa, Abuja
Ahead of the judgment of the Edo State governorship election tribunal, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo has sent a message of hope and unity to supporters and members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), and residents in the state.
A statement by his Press Secretary, Fed Itua, said Governor Okpebholo has urged all residents of the state to maintain peace and order.
“We have witnessed a vibrant and competitive electoral process, and I respect the legal avenues available to all parties. The tribunal’s decision is a crucial part of our democratic process, and we must all respect its authority.
“I want to emphasise that our state’s progress and development are paramount. We must not allow political differences to disrupt the peace and harmony we have worked so hard to build. I call on all political leaders, community leaders, and citizens to respect the rule of law, maintain peace and order, embrace unity, and avoid spreading misinformation.
“I have full confidence in our judiciary and its ability to deliver a fair and just judgment. I also have faith in the resilience and maturity of our people. Let us show the nation that we are a people committed to democracy, peace, and progress. I thank you for your understanding and cooperation. May God bless our state.”
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared that Okpebholo of the APC secured a total of 291,667 votes to defeat his closest rival, Ighodalo of the PDP, who got a total of 247,655 votes.
But, not satisfied with the outcome of the poll, the PDP and its candidate, Mr Asuerinme Ighodalo, approached the tribunal, alleging that it was not conducted in substantial compliance with provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022.
In their petition, marked EPT/ED/GOV/02/2024, the petitioners alleged that Governor Okpebholo did not secure the highest number of lawful votes cast in the election. They also contended that INEC failed to serialise and pre-record some of the sensitive materials that were deployed for the poll, a situation they said aided the rigging of the election in favour of the APC and its candidate.
The Justice Wilfred Kpochi-led three-member tribunal had, on 3 March, after the close of submissions, reserved its judgment on the case. Accordingly, the panel had, in the early hours of Tuesday, directed the parties to appear before it on Wednesday for the judgment.