The Supreme Court of Nigeria has affirmed the election of Senator Monday Okpebholo as the duly elected Governor of Edo State, bringing to a close a protracted legal tussle over the outcome of the September 21, 2024, gubernatorial election.
In a unanimous judgment delivered earlier today, the apex court upheld the ruling of the Court of Appeal, which had previously dismissed the petition filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Mr. Asue Ighodalo. The PDP had challenged the declaration of Okpebholo, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as winner of the fiercely contested election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The Supreme Court ruled that the PDP failed to provide sufficient evidence to overturn the decisions of the lower courts or substantiate claims of irregularities and non-compliance with the Electoral Act. The panel maintained that the election substantially complied with all legal requirements and reflected the will of the Edo electorate.
With this final verdict, all legal challenges to Senator Okpebholo’s mandate have been laid to rest, confirming him as the legitimate Governor of Edo State.
Reacting shortly after the judgment, Governor Okpebholo expressed gratitude to God, the judiciary, and the people of Edo State for standing by him throughout the electoral and legal process. He reiterated his commitment to delivering good governance, inclusive development, and healing post-election divisions in the state.
“I extend a hand of fellowship to all Edo sons and daughters, including my brother, Mr. Asue Ighodalo. It is time to move forward together. Elections are over; governance has begun,” Okpebholo said.
In a separate statement, Asue Ighodalo acknowledged the Supreme Court’s judgment, however, with reservation.
“Today the Supreme Court has ruled. Though I accept the finality of its judgement, I do not and cannot pretend that what was delivered amounts to justice,” said Ighodalo.
“I accept the decision of the Supreme Court with humility and respect for the rule of law. My gratitude goes to all Edo people who believed in our vision. Let us now turn our focus to ensuring that Edo State progresses under the new government,” Ighodalo said.
