Jane Otu, South South
DAILY COURIER — The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially filed a petition challenging the outcome of the September 21, 2024, governorship election in Edo State, which saw the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Monday Okpebholo, declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
According to INEC’s official results, Okpebholo secured 291,667 votes to defeat his closest rival, Dr. Asuerinme Ighodalo of the PDP, who garnered 247,274 votes. Barrister Olumide Osaigbovo Akpata of the Labour Party (LP) trailed in third place with 22,763 votes.
However, the PDP has disputed the validity of the results, alleging widespread manipulation and irregularities during the election. This prompted the party to file a petition at the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal.
Speaking at a press conference in Benin City on Monday, Edo State PDP Chairman, Tony Aziegbemi, expressed confidence that the tribunal would deliver justice. He described the election’s outcome as a “dark day” for democracy in Edo State, accusing the APC of stealing the people’s mandate.
“We know many of you, and indeed the people of Edo, have been wondering why we have not addressed you since the saddest day in the history of Edo State,” Aziegbemi said. “The stealing of your mandate and your right to freely choose who will govern you for the next four years is an affront to democracy, especially after the spectacular performance of our amiable Governor Godwin Obaseki.”
Aziegbemi also expressed gratitude to the people of Edo State for turning out in large numbers to support the PDP, despite what he described as “unprecedented militarization” and “financial inducement” by the APC. He claimed that voters were offered as much as fifteen thousand naira per vote.
“We are here to let you know that your vote will eventually count. You stared at the barrel of the gun, took their money, and still voted for the PDP. But the unthinkable happened — your votes were discarded, and your choice was silenced. We assure you that this will not stand,” Aziegbemi stated.
The PDP Chairman further confirmed that the party has already filed a petition at the Election Tribunal, seeking to reclaim what he described as the stolen mandate of the Edo people. “The journey to reclaim our mandate has begun, and by the grace of God, your mandate will be returned,” Aziegbemi assured supporters.
The PDP’s petition marks the latest in a series of challenges to the legitimacy of the election, with accredited observers, including Yiaga Africa, raising concerns about alleged electoral irregularities. They have pointed to possible manipulation of results and improper conduct by election officials.
The APC, however, has denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that the election was free and fair, with the will of the people reflected in the results announced by INEC.
As the tribunal process unfolds, all eyes will be on the legal proceedings, which could potentially alter the political landscape of Edo State depending on the final ruling.