The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has announced its relocation from Benin City, the state capital, to Abuja.
In a notice dated yesterday and signed by the Tribunal Secretary, Mu’azu Bagudu, all parties involved in the case were informed about the move.
The notice read in part, “I am directed to notify all parties that the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Benin City, Edo State, has been relocated to Abuja at the National Judicial Institute (NJI), Airport Road, Abuja, effective from Monday, 27th January 2025.”
No reason was provided for the relocation.
READ ALSO: Edo Election Tribunal admits PDP, Ighodalo’s evidence
The tribunal proceedings, which commenced on January 15 in Benin City, were disrupted by gunshots.
The chaotic scene saw hoodlums reportedly gathering near the venue, further heightening tension and causing attendees to flee for safety.
The tribunal began hearing petitions contesting the outcome of the September 21, 2024, Edo governorship election, in which the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner.
Okpebholo secured 291,667 votes, defeating his closest rival, Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who garnered 247,274 votes. Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP) finished third with 22,763 votes.
READ ALSO: Edo Election Tribunal: Okpebholo urges calm as proceedings commence
The PDP and APC have since traded accusations over the shooting incident, intensifying the already charged political atmosphere in the state.
