The Appeal Court is set to deliver its judgment on Thursday, May 29, 2025, in the legal battle over the September 21, 2024, Edo governorship election, where the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Asue Ighodalo, is challenging the disputed victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Monday Okpebholo.
The ruling marks a critical juncture in the contentious election saga, with the case expected to proceed to the Supreme Court for a final verdict.
Ighodalo, backed by his running mate Ogie, initially dragged the APC and Okpebholo to the election tribunal, contesting the outcome that declared Okpebholo the winner.
On April 2, 2025, the tribunal upheld Okpebholo’s victory after months of intense legal proceedings in Benin and Abuja.
However, the PDP and its candidates rejected the tribunal’s decision, arguing it failed to align with constitutional provisions on post-election disputes.
Dissatisfied, they escalated the matter to the Appeal Court, seeking to reclaim what they describe as their “stolen mandate.”
Political observers are optimistic about the PDP’s chances, citing what they call “inalienable evidence” presented before the court and the APC’s alleged inability to convincingly defend Okpebholo’s victory.
The PDP has consistently claimed that the election was marred by irregularities, positioning the Appeal Court’s ruling as a pivotal moment to restore electoral justice.
Meanwhile, controversy surrounds Okpebholo, who has reportedly been absent from Edo State for nearly three weeks.
Sources claim he has been frequenting power corridors in Abuja, allegedly lobbying for a favorable court outcome despite accusations of losing the election “fair and square.”
This has fueled public discontent, with critics questioning his commitment to governance amid the ongoing legal battle.
While Thursday’s judgment is not the final step, it is expected to set the stage for a Supreme Court showdown that will ultimately determine the rightful winner of the Edo governorship.
The PDP remains resolute, with supporters hopeful that the judiciary will uphold their claim to the mandate.
As the nation awaits the Appeal Court’s decision, Edo’s political landscape hangs in the balance, with far-reaching implications for the state’s leadership and Nigeria’s democratic process.