The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in Abuja has thrown out the petition filed by the Action Alliance (AA) and Adekunle Omoaje, challenging Governor Monday Okpebholo’s victory in the September 21, 2024, governorship election.
The tribunal dismissed the petition, describing it as lacking merit and frivolous.
Omoaje and AA had alleged corrupt practices and non-compliance with the Electoral Act, claiming that Okpebholo did not secure the majority of lawful votes. They also argued that the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) declaration of Okpebholo as governor was illegal and unconstitutional. Additionally, they claimed that AA was denied the opportunity to field a governorship candidate due to issues with the party’s nomination form.
However, the tribunal ruled that Omoaje lacked the legal standing to challenge the election since he did not participate in the poll. It also held that his claims had no basis under the Electoral Act 2022. INEC had declared Okpebholo the winner with 291,667 votes, defeating his closest rival, Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party, who polled 247,655 votes.
This dismissal is a significant development in the post-election process, affirming Okpebholo’s victory and paving the way for his continued governance.
