The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has adjourned proceedings to March 3, following the decision of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to close its case without calling additional witnesses. This move comes as the party defends the controversial victory of Governor Monday Okpebholo in the September 21, 2024, election.
The petition, filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate Asue Ighodalo, challenges the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) declaration of Okpebholo as the winner. Initially, the APC boasted of presenting 28 witnesses to counter the allegations, yet, in a sudden turn, they stopped at just four.
Allegations of Over-Voting and Missing Documents
Out of the four witnesses called by the APC, three made claims of over-voting in certain polling units. However, they admitted that results from these units had already been canceled. Despite promising to bring more witnesses, APC’s lead counsel, Ferdinand Orbih (SAN), informed the tribunal that their crucial documents had not arrived from Benin City.
“Yesterday, we promised to present 28 witnesses. However, after a comprehensive review and considering that the documents are still in Benin, we have decided not to proceed with calling additional witnesses,” Orbih stated.
In what appears to be a hasty retreat, he added, “My Lords, time is of the essence, and we do not want to waste the tribunal’s time. We are happy to close the third respondent’s case if it pleases your Lordships.”
Tribunal Adjourns as Final Arguments Loom
With no objections from either the petitioners or respondents, the tribunal officially declared the APC’s case closed. The court then adjourned proceedings to March 3, giving all parties time to submit their final written addresses before returning for adoption.
The sudden shift in APC’s strategy highlights some questions about their confidence in defending Okpebholo’s victory. Was it a tactical move or an admission of weak evidence? As the legal battle continues, all eyes remain on the tribunal’s final verdict.
