Edo State Governorship Drama: APC Vs. PDP

Scope 04 Apr 2025

Both Sides Ready for Showdown: APC and PDP Gear Up for Tribunal Verdict

As the clock ticks down to today’s highly anticipated judgment by the Edo State Governorship Election Tribunal, both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are leaving no stone unturned in their quest for victory. With emotions running high and the stakes sky-high, both parties have expressed unwavering confidence in their respective cases. This is the moment of truth for the political heavyweight bout between APC’s Governor Monday Okpebholo and PDP’s candidate, Asue Ighodalo.

Naija News brings you the inside scoop on what’s shaping up to be a political showdown of epic proportions. The PDP, along with their contender, is challenging the decision handed down by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which declared Governor Monday Okpebholo of the APC the winner in the September 21, 2024, governorship election. The PDP has accused the electoral process of being riddled with irregularities, setting the stage for this legal tug-of-war.

Fast forward to March 3, 2025, when the tribunal, presided over by Justice Wilfred Kpochi and his two colleagues, adjourned after all parties had submitted their final written addresses. The anticipation has been building ever since, and now, the day of reckoning is here. The nation is holding its breath, waiting to see how the tribunal will rule.

Read also:
Famous Dutch Lawyers From Spotlight To Controversy

APC’s Bold Stand: Confidence in Victory

In an exclusive interview with Daily Trust in Benin, Jarret Tenebe, the acting chairman of the APC in Edo State, didn’t mince words when expressing his party’s confidence. He boldly stated, “We are absolutely confident of victory because we have a rock-solid case. Our legal team has done an outstanding job, leaving no room for doubt.”

Tenebe further emphasized the importance of substantiating allegations. He pointed out, “When you challenge an election or accuse others of irregularities, you must back it up with concrete evidence. The PDP has failed to meet this burden of proof, and that’s why we believe the judgment will go in our favor.”

With a beaming smile, Tenebe added, “We are convinced that the tribunal will see things our way. APC and Governor Monday Okpebholo will emerge victorious, continuing to bring the dividends of democracy to the great people of Edo State. This is not just about winning an election; it’s about delivering progress and prosperity.”

PDP’s Optimism: A Fair Verdict Sought

Chris Nehikhare: Trusting in the Justice System

On the flip side, the PDP isn’t throwing in the towel just yet. Chris Nehikhare, the publicity secretary of the PDP caretaker committee, shared his party’s optimism in a recent statement. Nehikhare stressed, “Our only hope is that the judges will remain fair, transparent, and guided solely by the law. We’ve meticulously presented our case, armed with carefully documented evidence, and we trust that the verdict will reflect this.”

He continued, “We remain confident that we’ve done our part. The tribunal has all the facts at their disposal, and we believe they will act in the best interest of justice. This is not just about politics; it’s about ensuring that the voices of the people are heard and respected.”

As the nation watches with bated breath, one thing is certain: today’s judgment will not only determine the political future of Edo State but also set a precedent for electoral integrity in Nigeria. Stay tuned for the verdict that could redefine the political landscape of the region.