Benin City High Court, January 13, 2025 — The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has vowed to overturn the results of the September 21, 2024, governorship election as the State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal was scheduled to resume today.
The PDP’s candidate, Asue Ighodalo, is challenging the election results declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), alleging irregularities and manipulation.
The APC’s “victory” was met with widespread dissatisfaction from the PDP, and especially the people of Edo state who voted for Dr Asue Ighodalo and Barrister Osarodion Ogie, overwhelmingly. The election was marred by irregularities, voter intimidation, and electoral malpractice. The PDP has consistently maintained that its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, was the rightful winner of the election and that the results announced by INEC did not reflect the true will of the people.
During the tribunal’s session today, the APC and INEC requested an adjournment, citing a conflicting case at the Supreme Court scheduled for Tuesday, January 14, 2025. All parties agreed to the adjournment, and the tribunal will resume on Wednesday, January 15, 2025. The PDP’s legal team, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Ken Mozia, reluctantly conceded to the request, emphasizing that no further delays should be entertained
Speaking in court today, the PDP’s legal team presented evidence they say would prove the allegations of electoral misconduct. Party leaders, including the state chairman, Tony Aziegbemi, expressed confidence that the tribunal would rule in their favor and restore what they described as the stolen mandate. “We have gathered substantial evidence that clearly shows how the election was manipulated in favor of the APC. The people of Edo State voted for change, and we are determined to ensure that their voices are heard and respected,” Aziegbemi stated.
In response, the APC has dismissed the PDP’s claims as baseless and unfounded. They maintained that the election was free, fair, and transparent.
