Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has urged his supporters to maintain a calm and composed demeanour throughout the ongoing proceedings, a stance that has further solidified his standing with the public.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Okpebholo expressed confidence in the judicial process, reiterating his unwavering respect for the rule of law.
This approach stands in stark contrast to the petitioner’s frequent public outbursts, which some observers have interpreted as signs of desperation.
Itua further noted that the governor’s legal team has been particularly impressed with the meticulous and strategic handling of the case.
Led by some of Nigeria’s brightest legal minds, the team has demonstrated a profound understanding of electoral jurisprudence, using their expertise to effectively counter the opposition’s claims. This has significantly influenced the tribunal’s perception of the case.
“Public sentiment appears to be swinging in favour of Governor Okpebholo as well. Many citizens have taken to social media to express their belief that the tribunal will uphold his victory. The Governor’s track record, especially in road infrastructure development, has solidified his support base, with many viewing the tribunal’s proceedings as a mere formality.
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“As the tribunal proceeds, the momentum remains firmly with Governor Monday Okpebholo. His administration has continued to function effectively, demonstrating his focus on governance even amidst legal challenges. This dual commitment to justice and service has reinforced the public’s trust in his leadership”, he said.
Itua highlighted that the proceedings present a compelling case for Governor Okpebholo, and the tribunal’s final ruling will likely uphold his mandate.
He expressed confidence that the APC and its supporters remain optimistic, while the PDP struggles to substantiate its allegations.
He further emphasised that the unfolding events at the tribunal highlight the resilience of Nigeria’s democratic institutions and the unwavering determination of the Edo electorate.
Itua remarked that the ongoing governorship election tribunal has effectively become the focal point of political discourse in the State and beyond, with analysts and citizens keenly observing the developments.
“At the heart of the proceedings is Governor Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), whose victory was declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), in the September 21 election is being challenged by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Asue Akintunde Ighodalo.
“Interestingly, despite the opposition’s claims, proceedings so far suggest that Governor Okpebholo’s position remains unshaken. The evidence presented by the PDP revolves around alleged irregularities.
“But Governor Okpebholo’s legal team has meticulously dismantled these claims, presenting counter-evidence and testimonies that validate the credibility of the election.”
He stated that the tribunal recognized the comprehensive documentation presented by the petitioners and directed all parties to carry out a verification process to ensure a robust and transparent election.
He further explained that the witness testimonies had strengthened the governor’s case, noting that independent observers had previously affirmed that the election was largely peaceful and conducted in accordance with electoral laws.
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Itua added: “Their accounts align with reports from international and domestic monitors who hailed the election as a credible exercise. These testimonies directly counteract the opposition’s narrative of widespread manipulation.
“The tribunal’s scrutiny of evidence has also favoured Governor Okpebholo. A significant turning point was the forensic audit of the BVAS machines used during the election. The audit, requested by the PDP, ironically affirmed the authenticity of the results, showing that votes recorded were tallied with the electoral commission’s figures. This revelation has weakened the opposition’s case and reinforced the legitimacy of Okpebholo’s victory.
“Another critical factor working in favour of Governor Okpebholo is the perceived overreach by the PDP’s legal team. Their strategy of contesting results in all 18 local government areas has been criticized as overly ambitious and lacking in focus.
“The tribunal’s insistence on concrete evidence for each claim has exposed weaknesses in the PDP arguments, further tilting the scale toward Governor Okpebholo.
