This is a victory for every citizen and resident of Edo, says Okpebholo after tribunal ruling

Monday Okpebholo, the governor of Edo state, says his success at the state governorship election petition tribunal is a victory for every citizen and resident of the state.

Earlier on Wednesday, the tribunal affirmed Okpebholo as the duly elected governor of the state.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared Okpebholo, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the winner of the election held on September 21, 2024.

The tribunal in three respective judgments dismissed the petition filed by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Action Alliance, (AA) and Accord Party (AP).

The tribunal held that the PDP failed to call witnesses to prove its case of overvoting against the APC candidate.

The panel noted that PDP failed to call polling unit agents from all the polling units where it had alleged electoral irregularities.

The tribunal added that out of the 19 witnesses called by the petitioners, 14 of them were ward and local government agents and the star witness who claimed to be a director of strategy for the PDP played no role in the conduct of the election.

It also added that the bimodal voter accreditation system (BVAS) tendered by the petitioners were dumped on the tribunal.

In a statement issued by Fred Itua, the chief press secretary (CPS) to Okpebholo, the governor said the victory does not belong to him alone.

“Today, Wednesday, 2nd April, 2025, the Elections Tribunal delivered a resounding verdict, affirming the clear mandate of the people and upholding the victory of His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo,” the statement reads.

“The Tribunal, after a thorough and impartial examination of the petitions brought forward by the opposition, has dismissed all claims, confirming that the election was conducted in substantial compliance with the Electoral Act and that Governor Monday Okpebholo was duly elected.

“This decision validates the overwhelming support demonstrated by the citizens and residents of Edo State during the election. It reaffirms the integrity of our democratic process and stands as a testament to the will of the people.

“Governor Monday Okpebholo wishes to express his profound gratitude to the Tribunal for their diligence and fairness. He also extends his sincere appreciation to the people of Edo State for their unwavering support and belief in his vision for a prosperous and united state.

“This victory is not mine alone, but a victory for every citizen and residents 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.”

“The Governor calls upon all citizens, including the opposition and the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Asue 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.

“The administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo 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.”