The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has upheld the election of Governor Monday Okpebholo, sparking mixed reactions from political stakeholders.
The tribunal, sitting in Abuja, dismissed the petitions filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, challenging Okpebholo’s victory in the September 19 election.
Reacting to the ruling, the Edo PDP expressed disappointment.
Chris Nehikhare, spokesperson for the party’s Caretaker Committee, said they were awaiting the certified true copy of the judgment before deciding on their next steps.
“We are disappointed with the judgment.
Once we receive the certified true copy, we will study it and determine our next course of action,” Nehikhare stated.
Meanwhile, Aslem Ojezua, a former PDP chieftain who defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), said he was not surprised by the verdict, describing the petition as lacking merit.
“What I expect now is for Ighodalo to congratulate Okpebholo and collaborate in addressing the challenges facing our people,” Ojezua remarked, emphasizing the distinction between legal arguments and political sensationalism.
Dan Orbih, PDP National Vice Chairman (South-South), acknowledged the tribunal’s ruling, stating that the party would now shift focus to rebuilding its structure in Edo.
He noted that efforts would be made to reconcile with members who left during the primary elections.
Orbih blamed former Governor Godwin Obaseki for the party’s struggles, accusing him of causing internal divisions.
“Unfortunately, the former governor brought distress and division to the PDP.
Today, he was nowhere to be seen at the tribunal as we awaited the judgment,” he said.
He added that legal experts would review the tribunal’s decision before the party takes any further action.