Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Edo State, made a striking appearance at the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in Abuja on Monday, March 3, 2025, as the court adopted final written addresses, paving the way for a pivotal judgment in the contentious September 21 election.
The resumed hearing saw counsel for both petitioners and respondents formally present their written submissions, bringing legal arguments to a close. “The Tribunal has reserved judgment, with a date to be communicated to the parties in due course,” tribunal officials confirmed, heightening anticipation among stakeholders.
Ighodalo’s legal team bolstered their case with compelling evidence, including 154 BVAS machines, certified true copies of result sheets, and polling unit records. This uncontested evidence, they argued, laid bare widespread irregularities such as over-voting, non-serialisation of electoral materials, and INEC’s erroneous computation of scores. The strength of their presentation has fueled optimism among supporters.
Conversely, Senator Monday Okpebholo’s defence faltered, with a notable blow dealt by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the 1st respondent, which failed to produce a single witness to defend the election’s conduct. This absence has cast further doubt on the integrity of the process.
As the tribunal prepares to deliver its ruling, all eyes are on the outcome of this high-stakes battle, which could reshape Edo State’s political landscape. More details are expected to emerge as the judgment date nears.