Edo Election Tribunal Postponed as Respondents Cite Supreme Court Conflict
The eagerly awaited Edo State Election Petition Tribunal was unexpectedly delayed today after the first and second respondents—the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Governor Monday Okpebholo—filed an application for a postponement. They requested the adjournment until Wednesday, January 15, 2025, citing a clash with a Supreme Court hearing scheduled for Tuesday, January 14, 2025, in Abuja.
During the tribunal’s opening session, the Assistant Secretary read out the application, explaining that the respondents were unable to proceed with the scheduled hearing due to prior commitments related to the Supreme Court case.
The petitioners’ legal team raised concerns about the short notice, revealing they had only been informed of the adjournment request on January 12, 2025. However, after consideration, the petitioners agreed to the postponement, contingent on the respondents’ commitment not to request further delays that could hinder the tribunal’s proceedings.
The case is now scheduled to resume on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, unless further disruptions occur.
Outside the tribunal, Goodluck Osaretin, a member of the PDP, expressed frustration, accusing the respondents of using delay tactics similar to previous attempts to block access to BVAS machines. He expressed confidence in the legal team led by Barrister Asue, asserting that while delays might occur, justice would ultimately prevail. “The APC, in collusion with INEC, rigged this election, and we are determined to reclaim our mandate,” he stated.
Representatives for Governor Okpebholo and INEC were unavailable for comment at the time.
