The Edo State Election Petitions Tribunal on Wednesday, 2 April upheld the electoral victory of Governor Monday Okpebholo, dismissing all petitions challenging his mandate.
The judgement of the Justice Wilfred Kpochi led panel of three judges which came after a pains taking review of the opposition’s claims, reaffirmed that the election was conducted in substantial compliance with the Electoral Act.
In his reaction to the verdict, Governor Okpebholo expressed deep gratitude to the judiciary for its diligence and unwavering commitment to justice.
He also thanked the people of Edo State for their enduring trust and support, noting that they’re the true victors of the decision.
“This triumph is not about me, but about our shared aspiration for a greater Edo State. It is about the faith you have placed in our vision for progress, prosperity, and inclusivity, We must now rise above political divisions and unite in service to our state.”
The Governor also extended a hand of fellowship to his closest opponent, Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and all opposition members, urging them to set aside partisan interests and collaborate for the development of Edo State. He emphasized that governance is about service, not rivalry, and that unity is the key to unlocking Edo’s full potential.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to good governance, transparency, and impactful leadership, assuring Edo residents that his focus remains steadfast on fulfilling campaign promises.
Mean while, candidate of the PDP, Asuerinme Ighodalo has instructed his legal team to appeal the tribunal judgement to the Court of Appeal.
In a statement signed by Ighodalo and made available to newsmen in Benin City appealed to his supporters and party faithful to remain calm and law abiding while the judicial process is deployed to address the alleged injustice.
According to the statement, “While we all may not agree with the verdict, we however remain steadfast in our belief that the rule of law must remain the bedrock of our democracy. Our pursuit of justice in this regard is an affirmation of our firm belief that the right of the good people of Edo State to freely choose their leaders through a credible, free and fair electoral process must never be compromised.
“As an avowed democrat, I respect the judiciary as the last hope of the common man, and I urge all of you, our dear good people of Edo State, to remain peaceful, calm and law-abiding in the aftermath of this Judgement. However, let it be clear: this is not the end of our journey, but the beginning of a greater struggle for justice, democracy, and the sanctity of the people’s mandate freely conferred on my running mate, Barr. Osarodion Ogie and I on the platform of our great Party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP)
“From the very beginning, your massive show of support, sincere love and belief in our shared vision for a prosperous Edo State have been the driving force behind this journey. For us, it has never been about the realisation of a personal ambition but about our conviction to create a clear Pathway to Prosperity for all Edo People while upholding the foundational values of democracy, justice, and the will of the people.
“I have, therefore, instructed my legal team to proceed to the Court of Appeal to challenge this decision which we consider a huge travesty of justice. This is not about me or any single individual; it is about the very essence of democracy, the preservation of our collective right to freely determine our future, and the legacy we leave for generations unborn”, the statement said.
He vowed that his government would not be distracted by political theatrics but would instead channel its energy into driving growth, innovation, and social transformation.
With this victory, a new dawn emerges for Edo State—one built on collective resolve, shared purpose, and an unyielding pursuit of excellence. Governor Okpebholo’s call for unity and progress is more than just words; it is a rallying cry for every Edo citizen to be part of a legacy that transcends politics and ushers in an era of sustained development.