Edo tribunal: Okpebholo cautions opposition against misinterpreting electoral law

The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has issued a stern warning to opposition political parties, particularly the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to exercise caution in their pursuit of legal challenges at the state’s Governorship Election Tribunal.

The government reaffirmed the importance of adhering to due process and seeking expert legal advice to avoid further complications and misunderstandings in the ongoing case.

In a statement released by the Governor’s Media Office on Wednesday, the state government stressed that the rule of law must always prevail in Edo’s electoral processes.

He also reminded the opposition that it was crucial to respect the legal framework governing the election.

The statement particularly cautioned the PDP, urging the party to seek competent legal counsel rather than rely on superficial interpretations of electoral laws.

“The people of Edo State deserve a fair and transparent electoral process, and it is imperative that all stakeholders—whether political parties, legal practitioners, or the electorate—work in harmony to uphold the integrity of the process,” the statement read partly.

The government further reassured the public that the state was moving forward under the leadership of a government that had the confidence and trust of the people.

The caution from the state government comes in the wake of recent developments at the Governorship Election Tribunal, which is currently hearing Petition No. EPT/ED/GOV/01/2024, filed by Dr. Bright Enabulele and various political parties. On January 15, the tribunal, presided over by Justice Wilfred Kachi, saw testimony from three witnesses for the petitioners.

Legal representatives of the respondents, including Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and the All Progressives Congress (APC), were also present.

In what appeared to be a premature and misguided declaration of victory, the PDP had initially celebrated a favourable outcome, based on what it believed was a correct interpretation of the role of the Biometric Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) in determining voter turnout.

However, the PDP’s celebration was short-lived, as the tribunal swiftly pointed out that BVAS data is not the decisive factor in voter turnout.

“This outcome underscores the importance of seeking proper legal guidance and ensuring a sound understanding of the legal principles that govern elections. The BVAS, though an important tool, is not the sole determinant of voter turnout,” the statement from the state government reiterated, referencing the recent ruling that confirmed the APC’s victory.

The Governor who described the PDP as making attempts to disrupt his administration’s progress, reiterated that Edo State’s electoral integrity was intact and that the government would not be distracted by politically motivated maneuvers.

The ruling of the tribunal and the events that have transpired thus far have only reaffirmed the importance of legal expertise in electoral disputes, ensuring that all parties involved fully understand the legal intricacies before taking action.

The Edo State Government has called for unity, urging all political stakeholders to respect the legal process and work towards a peaceful and progressive future for the state.

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