Inaugural Sitting Amid High Stakes
BENIN CITY—Amid tight security, the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal began its inaugural sitting on Monday at the Edo State High Court along Sapele Road. The tribunal is tasked with addressing the petition filed by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Asue Ighodalo, challenging the victory of Governor Monday Okpebholo in the September 21, 2024, election.
Justice Wilfred Kpochi, chairman of the tribunal, called for cooperation from all stakeholders, including political parties, counsel, security agencies, and the media, to ensure orderly proceedings. Accompanied by panel members Justices AB Yusuf and AA Adewole, Justice Kpochi emphasized the importance of maintaining a calm and conducive environment.
“I am impressed by the conducive and calm environment I see today,” Kpochi remarked. “I ask that we keep this atmosphere going, and if anyone has concerns, please draw our attention to them. Let’s avoid shouting or unnecessary arguments.”
Multiple Parties Contest Results
Aside from the PDP’s petition, the tribunal will hear cases brought by the Accord Party (AC), Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Action Democratic Party (ADP), Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), and Social Democratic Party (SDP). These parties are collectively challenging the outcome of the election, which declared Okpebholo the winner.
Lead counsel for Ighodalo, Ken Mozia (SAN), pledged commitment to the proceedings, urging supporters to maintain civility and refrain from crowding the court premises. “We will advise our supporters to remain civil and avoid actions that could disrupt the proceedings,” Mozia assured.
Similarly, Governor Okpebholo’s lead counsel, Oyinyechi Ikpazu (SAN), emphasized the need for mutual understanding and collaboration. “We are committed to ensuring a smooth process,” Ikpazu stated, calling on all parties to work together constructively.
Concerns About Courtroom Capacity
The Benin Chapter Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Idemudia Osifo, expressed concerns about the limited space in the courtroom given the large number of attendees. Justice Kpochi acknowledged the issue and promised that it would be addressed to accommodate stakeholders appropriately.
While Ighodalo and the state PDP chairman, Hon. Tony Aziegbemi, were present in court, Governor Okpebholo was notably absent. The All Progressives Congress (APC) was represented by its State Legal Adviser, Stephen Okoror, alongside prominent party members, including former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Fran Okiye.
Adjournment and Continued Proceedings
The tribunal adjourned the hearing to Wednesday, December 18, to allow all parties to finalize preliminary actions and agree on the hearing schedule. Justice Kpochi urged parties to come prepared for further pre-hearing proceedings to ensure an efficient process.
Tensions Outside the Courtroom
While the proceedings inside the court were orderly, clashes erupted outside the premises as supporters of various parties engaged in heated altercations. Some supporters, wearing white fez caps and T-shirts with political inscriptions, reportedly clashed with others opposed to these symbols. The confrontation caused chaos, with individuals running in different directions within the court premises.
Security agencies quickly intervened to restore order, but the incident underscores the heightened tensions surrounding the tribunal’s proceedings. Observers have called for additional security measures to prevent further disruptions as the tribunal continues its work.
Looking Ahead
The Edo Governorship Election Petition Tribunal’s proceedings are being closely watched as they hold significant implications for the political landscape in the state. Stakeholders have expressed hope that the tribunal will deliver a fair and transparent process that upholds justice and democratic principles.
