The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal delivered its judgment on Wednesday, dismissing the petition filed by the Action Alliance (AA) and its purported National Chairman, Adekunle Omoaje, against the election of Governor Godwin Obaseki of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The tribunal meticulously dissected the petitioners’ arguments, which centered on allegations of corrupt practices, non-compliance with the Electoral Act 2022, and the legitimacy of Obaseki’s victory. Ultimately, the tribunal found the petition lacking in merit and substance, characterizing it as frivolous and striking it out in its entirety. This decision affirms Obaseki’s electoral victory and reinforces his mandate as the duly elected governor of Edo State.
One of the core arguments presented by the petitioners revolved around the claim that Obaseki did not secure the majority of lawful votes cast in the September 21, 2024 governorship election. They contended that the election was marred by irregularities and corrupt practices, thereby undermining the integrity of the outcome. However, the tribunal, after reviewing the evidence presented, found no credible evidence to substantiate these allegations. The petitioners failed to provide concrete proof of widespread irregularities that could have significantly impacted the election results. This lack of substantial evidence weakened their case and contributed to the tribunal’s decision to dismiss the petition.
The petitioners also raised concerns regarding INEC’s declaration of Obaseki as the winner, arguing that the declaration was illegal and unconstitutional. They questioned the validity of the electoral process and sought to invalidate the outcome based on perceived procedural flaws. However, the tribunal, in its judgment, upheld the INEC’s declaration, finding no legal basis to challenge the commission’s authority in announcing the election results. The tribunal emphasized that INEC, as the constitutionally mandated body responsible for conducting elections, acted within its powers and adhered to the prescribed legal framework.
A key point of contention in the petition was the issue of AA’s governorship candidacy. Omoaje claimed that the party was denied the opportunity to field a candidate due to the absence of his signature, as the purported National Chairman, on the nomination form. This, he argued, disenfranchised the party and its supporters. However, the tribunal ruled that Omoaje lacked the locus standi to challenge the election outcome. His claim of being the National Chairman of AA was disputed, and the tribunal determined that he was not a recognized participant in the election, rendering his petition invalid.
The tribunal’s judgment highlighted the importance of adhering to legal procedures and presenting credible evidence in election petitions. It underscored the principle that mere allegations, without substantial proof, cannot overturn the outcome of a democratic election. By dismissing the petition, the tribunal reaffirmed the validity of the electoral process and upheld the will of the people as expressed through the ballot box. This decision brings closure to the legal challenge against Obaseki’s election, allowing the governor to focus on governance and fulfilling his mandate to the people of Edo State.
Furthermore, the tribunal’s decision reinforces the role of the judiciary as an impartial arbiter in electoral disputes. By meticulously examining the evidence and applying the relevant legal principles, the tribunal ensured that the outcome of the election was based on the merits of the case and not on unsubstantiated claims. This strengthens public confidence in the electoral process and the judicial system’s capacity to uphold the rule of law. The dismissal of the petition allows for the smooth continuation of governance in Edo State, preventing prolonged uncertainty and potential instability that could have arisen from a protracted legal battle.
