The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has set March 3 as the date for parties involved in the petition to present their final written arguments.
This decision follows the All Progressives Congress (APC) closing its case without introducing additional witnesses to support Governor Monday Okpebholo’s victory in the September 21, 2024, election.
The tribunal is currently reviewing a petition filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, who are contesting the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) declaration of Okpebholo as the election winner.
On Wednesday, the APC had indicated plans to present 28 witnesses to validate Okpebholo’s win.
READ ALSO: Edo Election Tribunal admits PDP, Ighodalo’s evidence
However, only four were ultimately called to testify.
Three of these witnesses alleged incidents of over-voting but noted that the results from the affected polling units had been annulled.
During Thursday’s proceedings, APC’s lead counsel, Ferdinand Orbih (SAN), announced that the party would not be presenting any further witnesses.
He explained that key documents needed for the defense were still in Benin City and had not arrived in time for the hearing.
“After reviewing our case and considering the logistical challenges, we have opted not to proceed with additional witness testimonies,” Orbih stated.
“Given the tribunal’s time constraints, we are prepared to close the third respondent’s case.”
READ ALSO: Edo Tribunal: INEC backs out, closes case without witnesses
With no objections from either the petitioners or respondents, the tribunal closed the APC’s defence and adjourned the proceedings to March 3.
The adjournment allows all parties to finalize their written submissions before the next hearing, where they will formally adopt their arguments.
