My victory is for all, Governor Okpebholo speaks after Tribunal’s verdict
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo wednesday said his victory at Edo Election Petition Tribunal, was a victory for all Edo people.
Okpebholo, who spoke through his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Fred Itua, said: “This victory is not mine alone, but a victory for every citizen and residen of Edo State. It is a mandate to continue the work we have started, to build a state where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We remain committed to our promise of good governance, transparency, and inclusive development.”
He noted that the decision of the court validates the overwhelming support demonstrated by the citizens and residents of Edo State during the election, emphasising that the judgment reaffirmed the integrity of the democratic process and a testament to the will of the people.
The governor expressed his profound gratitude to the Tribunal for their diligence and fairness.
The Tribunal on Wednesday dismissed the petition of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and its governorship candidate in the September 2024 election in the state, Asue Ighodalo, saying it lacked merit.
The Justice Wilfred Kpochi led three-man panel in a unanimous judgement, stressed that the petitioners failed to prove its allegations of over voting and electoral non-compliance.
Justice Kpochi held that it is the duty of a petitioner to prove its electoral malpractice allegations against INEC, and not the other way round.
On the petitioners’ allegations that the number of votes cast were greater than the number of registered voters in disputed polling units, the judge agreed with the defendants that the petitioners failed to present polling unit agents and presiding officers to prove it.
The judge said it was “clear to us that the documents tendered from the bar (by the petitioners) were dumped on the tribunal without any competent witness” to substantiate the claims of over-voting and electoral non-compliance.
Meanwhile, Governor Okpebholo called on all citizens, including the opposition and Ighodalo to join hands in the spirit of unity and work together for the progress of Edo State.
“It is time to put aside partisan differences and focus on the common goal of building a better future for our State,” he said.
He stated further: “This administration remains focused on delivering on its campaign promises and will not be distracted by frivolous litigation. The administration is committed to serving the people of Edo State with dedication and integrity.”
He also extended his sincere appreciation to the people of Edo State for their unwavering support and belief in his vision for a prosperous and united state.
