The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, led by Justice Wilfred Kpochi, has released its pre-hearing reports and established rules for addressing petitions challenging the outcome of the September 21, 2024, governorship election.
The petitions, filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, as well as the Accord Party (AP) and its candidate, Bright Enabulele, contest the victory of Governor Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The respondents in the cases include Governor Okpebholo, the APC, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Justice Kpochi announced that hearings will commence on January 13, 2025, and will be conducted daily, except on Sundays and public holidays. The tribunal plans to hear up to ten witnesses per day to maintain a swift pace.
In the case filed by PDP’s Asue Ighodalo, 290 witnesses are slated to testify. Meanwhile, four witnesses have been listed in AP’s petition led by Bright Enabulele.
The tribunal underscored its commitment to adhering to the Electoral Act of 2022, discouraging unnecessary adjournments to ensure efficient progress. It also reserved the right to modify timelines as needed to meet the strict deadlines for election petition cases.
The proceedings aim to resolve legal disputes surrounding the election outcome, with both PDP and AP seeking to challenge the legitimacy of Governor Okpebholo’s victory.
