The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has dismissed a petition challenging the victory of Governor Monday Okpebholo and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the September 21, 2024 election.
Key Tribunal Rulings:
- Petition filed by the Action Alliance (AA) and Adekunle Rufai Omoaje was dismissed for lack of merit and being frivolous.
- Omoaje lacked locus standi (legal standing) to challenge the election since he did not participate in the governorship race.
- His claims regarding not being recognized as the National Chairman of AA had no basis under the Electoral Act 2022.
Petition Claims vs. Tribunal Verdict
Omoaje’s Claims:
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The election was illegal and non-compliant with the Electoral Act.
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The APC did not win the majority of lawful votes.
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He was not allowed to nominate a candidate as AA’s chairman.
Tribunal’s Response:
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The claims lacked merit and had no legal basis.
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The tribunal affirmed INEC’s declaration of Okpebholo as the winner.
Election Results Recap:
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Governor Okpebholo (APC) → 291,667 votes
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Asue Ighodalo (PDP) → 247,655 votes
The tribunal’s ruling reinforces Okpebholo’s mandate, though other petitions against the election may still be heard.
