In a surprising turn of events, the Edo State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal has announced its relocation from Benin City, the state capital, to Abuja, Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory. This decision, effective Monday, January 27, 2025, was disclosed in an official notice signed by the tribunal’s secretary, Mu’azu Bagudu.
The notice stated, “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.”
Although no official reason was provided for the relocation, it is widely believed to be linked to the violent disruptions that have plagued the tribunal’s sessions since the start of the year.
Violence Mars Tribunal Sessions
The tribunal sessions in Benin City were marred by chaos, with reports of gunshots and clashes that sent participants and observers fleeing for safety. On January 15, during one of the hearings, gunfire erupted outside the venue, causing widespread panic. Eyewitnesses also reported the presence of hoodlums around the tribunal premises, further escalating tensions.
The violence prompted accusations and counter-accusations between the two main political parties involved in the tribunal proceedings.
Jarrett Tenebe, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), accused supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Asue Ighodalo, of orchestrating the attacks. “Today’s shooting incident within the venue of the Governorship Election Tribunal in Benin City involving members of the opposition PDP is a deeply disturbing and unacceptable act of violence,” Tenebe said.
However, the PDP swiftly denied the allegations. Acting Chairman of the party in Edo State, Tony Aziegbemi, dismissed the claims, stating, “Please tell me, why would the PDP attempt to disrupt the only opportunity it has to reclaim the mandate given to it by the people of Edo State during the last governorship election?”
The Election and Controversy
The tribunal is currently hearing petitions challenging the results of the September 21, 2024, Edo State governorship election. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Monday Okpebholo of the APC as the winner of the election with 291,667 votes.
His closest rival, Asue Ighodalo of the PDP, garnered 247,274 votes, while Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party came a distant third with 22,763 votes.
Ighodalo has challenged the election outcome, alleging irregularities and malpractice. The PDP is seeking to overturn Okpebholo’s victory, claiming it does not reflect the will of the Edo electorate.
A Controversial Relocation
The relocation of the tribunal to Abuja has sparked debates, with many questioning the rationale behind the decision. Critics argue that moving the proceedings to the nation’s capital undermines the accessibility of justice for Edo residents, who may find it difficult to attend hearings in Abuja.
Others, however, view the move as necessary to ensure the safety of tribunal members and stakeholders amid escalating violence in Benin City. The tribunal’s relocation to the National Judicial Institute (NJI), a secure and neutral venue, is seen by some as a strategic decision to maintain order and impartiality.
The Road Ahead
As the tribunal resumes in Abuja, all eyes are on the proceedings, which hold significant implications for Edo State’s political landscape. With tensions running high and both the APC and PDP digging in their heels, the tribunal’s verdict could reshape the state’s governance and test the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral and judicial systems.
While the move to Abuja may provide a more controlled environment, the underlying political tensions in Edo State remain unresolved. The tribunal’s decision will not only determine the governorship but also set a precedent for how electoral disputes are handled in a deeply polarized political climate.
