The Edo State governorship election petition tribunal’s relocation from Benin City to Abuja has sparked a war of words between the state chapters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The tribunal secretary, Mu’azu Ibrahim, issued a notice on January 24, 2025, informing all parties of the relocation, effective January 27, 2025. The new venue is the National Judicial Institute (NJI) located on Airport Road, Abuja. While the official notice offered no explanation for the move, speculation points towards previous disturbances at the Benin City court premises as a possible contributing factor.
The APC, through its state publicity secretary, Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigie, accused the PDP of orchestrating the relocation. Uwadiae-Igbinigie alleges that the PDP, under the pretext of witness intimidation and discomfort in Benin City, sought a less publicized venue in Abuja to shield their weakening case from public scrutiny. He argues that the PDP’s witnesses failed to bolster their claims, facing intense media attention that exposed the flaws in their testimony. Uwadiae-Igbinigie expressed confidence in the APC’s legal team and their ability to prevail regardless of the venue, dismissing the relocation as a desperate tactic by the PDP.
Conversely, the PDP, represented by Chris Nehikhare, the publicity secretary of the state caretaker committee, attributed the relocation to the “concrete evidence” presented by their witnesses. Nehikhare contends that this evidence exerted “undue pressure” from APC chieftains, leading to threats of disrupting the tribunal proceedings in Benin City. He posits that the relocation to Abuja ensures a neutral and secure environment, free from the influence of both state and non-state actors, thereby safeguarding the pursuit of justice.
The contrasting narratives presented by both parties highlight the deep political divisions and tensions surrounding the governorship election petition. The APC portrays the relocation as a strategic maneuver by the PDP to escape scrutiny and salvage a failing case. They emphasize the strength of their own legal team and express unwavering confidence in their ability to triumph in Abuja. The PDP, on the other hand, frames the relocation as a necessary measure to protect the integrity of the tribunal proceedings, alleging intimidation and threats from the APC. They highlight the significance of their presented evidence and the need for a neutral venue to ensure a fair hearing.
The relocation itself adds a new layer of complexity to the legal battle. The change in venue could potentially impact the accessibility of witnesses and evidence, influencing the pace and dynamics of the proceedings. The move to Abuja, the nation’s capital, may also attract increased national attention to the case, intensifying the political spotlight on both parties. Furthermore, the neutral setting of the National Judicial Institute aims to minimize potential local influences and ensure a more impartial legal process.
The tribunal’s resumption in Abuja on January 28, 2025 marks a crucial turning point in the Edo State governorship election petition. The new venue and the surrounding controversy will undoubtedly shape the unfolding legal drama as both parties continue their fight for the governorship. The clashing narratives and accusations underscore the high stakes involved and the intense political climate surrounding the election. The outcome of this legal battle will have significant implications for the future political landscape of Edo State.
