I n an unexpected twist, the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has announced its relocation from Benin City, the state capital, to Abuja. This decision, conveyed through a notice signed by Tribunal Secretary Mu’azu Bagudu on January 24, 2025, has sparked speculation among political observers and stakeholders.
The notice reads: “With effect from Monday, January 27, 2025, I am directed to notify all parties that the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, located in Benin City, Edo State, has been relocated to Abuja at the National Judicial Institute (NJI), Airport Road, Abuja.” However, the brief message provided no explanation for the sudden move.
Unrest Mars Initial Tribunal Proceedings
The tribunal had barely begun its proceedings on January 15, 2025, when chaos erupted at the venue in Benin City. Reports of gunfire near the hearing location sent shockwaves across the city, forcing many to flee in panic. Witnesses also alleged the presence of armed thugs outside the premises, raising questions about the security of the tribunal and its ability to conduct proceedings without interference.
This turbulence has further fueled speculations about the motivations behind the tribunal’s relocation.
A Fierce Contest: APC’s Victory and PDP’s Challenge
At the heart of the tribunal’s proceedings is a fierce battle over the results of the September 21, 2024, gubernatorial election in Edo State. Declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Monday Okpebholo, secured 291,667 votes. His closest rival, Asue Ighodalo of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), garnered 247,274 votes, while Labour Party’s Olumide Akpata trailed with 22,763 votes.
Ighodalo, refusing to concede, has raised questions about the credibility of the election and is seeking redress through the tribunal.
Political Tensions Escalate
In the aftermath of the gunfire incident, both the APC and PDP traded accusations, each blaming the other for the disruption. These tensions have cast a shadow over the tribunal’s efforts to deliver impartial justice and underscored the volatile nature of Edo State politics.
As the tribunal prepares to resume its proceedings in Abuja, all eyes are on the National Judicial Institute, where the next chapter of this unfolding drama will play out. For now, the relocation remains a hot topic of discussion, with many eagerly awaiting clarity on the tribunal’s decision and the outcome of the legal battle.
This move to the nation’s capital could signal an attempt to ensure a more secure and neutral environment for the proceedings. Whether it succeeds in restoring confidence in the process remains to be seen.
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