Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has expressed satisfaction with the ruling of the state governorship election tribunal, which upheld his victory in the September 21, 2024, election.
The three-member tribunal, led by Justice Wilfred Kpochi, dismissed the petition filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, citing a lack of credible evidence. The tribunal ruled that the petitioners failed to prove their allegations against Okpebholo and noted that they did not present “competent witnesses” to support their claims.
In the election, Okpebholo, who ran under the All Progressives Congress (APC), secured 291,667 votes, while Ighodalo of the PDP received 247,274 votes. Despite this, the PDP challenged the result, alleging electoral irregularities, but the tribunal found their case lacked merit.
Following the verdict, Okpebholo, through a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, extended a hand of reconciliation to Ighodalo and opposition party members, urging them to work together for the development of Edo State.
The governor also expressed gratitude to the people of Edo for their support and trust in his leadership. “We are focused on continuing the good work we have started. This victory is not mine alone, but a victory for every citizen and resident of Edo State,” he said.
Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fulfilling its campaign promises and stated that governance would not be derailed by “frivolous litigation.” He emphasized his dedication to good governance, transparency, and inclusive development, adding, “This mandate is an opportunity to continue building a state where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”