The Edo State Governorship Election Tribunal’s recent proceedings have shed light on the importance of legal counsel and the accurate interpretation of electoral laws.

Biztellers reports that on Wednesday, the tribunal, presided over by Justice Wilfred Kachi, heard Petition No. EPT/ED/GOV/01/2024, filed by Dr. Bright Enabulele and various political parties.

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During the session, three witnesses testified for the petitioners, while the respondents, including the incumbent Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and the All Progressives Congress (APC), were represented by their counsel.

It was gathered that the PDP expressed joy at the turn of events, believing they had won due to a misinterpretation of the BVAS role in determining voter turnout.

The APC would however, point out that their political rivals failed to seek proper legal counsel, which would have advised them that the BVAS was not the sole determinant of voter turnout.

The APC cited the Supreme Court in asserting that the voter report from units and wards is the decisive factor.

It maintained that this oversight led to the PDP’s celebration being short-lived, as the tribunal’s analysis revealed that the APC was, in fact, the winner. This outcome highlights the importance of seeking proper legal advice and understanding the intricacies of electoral laws.

In the words of the Supreme Court, the BVN is not a device to conclude voter turnout.

Rather, it is the voter report from units and wards that holds significant weight.

In light of this development, the APC urged the opposition, particularly the PDP, to tread with caution and avoid the legal implications of the Governorship tribunal case against them.

According to APC sources, it is essential for the PDP to seek proper legal counsel and advisory guidance to navigate the complexities of the electoral process.

As the legal battle unfolds, it is crucial to remember that the rule of law must prevail, and justice must be served. The people of Edo State deserve a fair and transparent electoral process, and it is the responsibility of all stakeholders to ensure that this is achieved.

“The opposition that is in a wild goose chase must endeavor to allow peace reign in the State as Edo State is coasting smoothly with its choice of a Government they are comfortable with,” Edo State APC asserted.

It maintained that Gov Okpebholo remained unperturbed about the antics of the opposition to distract his administration.

There was a heavy police presence at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national headquarters on Monday as the party’s National Secretary dispute continues to simmer.

Both Samuel Anyawu, the embattled National Secretary, and Ude Okoye, who the Court of Appeal has declared the authentic National Secretary, were expected to assume duties today, fueling a tense standoff at the party’s secretariat.

Sources on the ground reported that while the atmosphere remained charged, the presence of police personnel ensured some level of order.

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Supporters of both Anyawu and Okoye gathered outside, each faction determined to back their respective candidates.

The situation took a dramatic turn when Anyawu drove into the premises and proceeded directly to his office, where he was greeted by cheers from his loyalists.

Inside, Anyawu called for prayers before addressing the media.

Responding to questions regarding the Court of Appeal’s ruling in favor of Okoye, Anyawu confirmed that the matter has been appealed and is currently before the Supreme Court.

When asked about the PDP’s acknowledgment of Okoye as the National Secretary, following a briefing by the national publicity secretary last week, Anyawu dismissed it as the personal opinion of the spokesperson.

The roots of this conflict trace back to Anyawu’s decision to contest the Imo State governorship election, a move that led him to temporarily vacate the National Secretary position.

Upon his return, Okoye, who had assumed the role during Anyawu’s absence, challenged Anyawu’s right to reclaim the office.

Following legal proceedings, the Court of Appeal ruled in Okoye’s favor, and the PDP National Working Committee acknowledged Okoye as the legitimate National Secretary, respecting the court’s decision.

Despite this, Anyawu continues to assert his claim, with both sides preparing for a prolonged battle.

The Edo Governorship Election Petition Tribunal commenced proceedings today in Benin City, setting the stage for a heated legal battle between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The tribunal will adjudicate on the disputed outcome of the September 21 gubernatorial election, which declared APC’s candidate, Governor Monday Okpebholo, as the winner.

The PDP’s candidate, Asue Ighodalo, has filed a petition challenging the results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

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The petition alleges widespread irregularities, including non-compliance with the Electoral Act, inflated votes for the APC in its strongholds, and the unlawful cancellation of PDP votes in key local government areas.

Speaking ahead of the tribunal’s opening session, PDP spokesperson Barrister Tony Ehilebo expressed confidence in the strength of the party’s case.

“We have submitted overwhelming evidence to prove that the election was rigged. This tribunal has an opportunity to restore the mandate stolen from the people of Edo and reaffirm the integrity of our democracy,” Ehilebo said.

The APC, however, has dismissed the PDP’s allegations as unfounded. Chief Alex Okosun, a prominent APC leader, criticized the opposition’s legal challenge as unnecessary.

“It is time for politicians to accept defeat and stop litigating every election result. Asue and Governor Okpebholo are both Esan; they should work together to move Edo forward. This is about progress, not division,” Okosun stated.

The tribunal’s proceedings have sparked intense debate across the state.

While PDP supporters remain optimistic about overturning the results, APC loyalists are confident that Governor Okpebholo’s mandate will be upheld.