The Election Petition Tribunal in Abuja has been praised by the family of Godwin Obaseki, the immediate former governor of Edo State, for upholding Monday Okpebholo’s election victory as the state’s governor.
For lack of reliable evidence, the three-member tribunal panel, presided over by Justice Wilfred Kpochi, rejected the claims made by the PDP and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo.
The Tribunal’s decision that the PDP and Ighodalo had not proven their allegations against Okpebholo was made public on Wednesday.
The Tribunal upheld the election of Okpebholo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, who was proclaimed the victor by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), by ruling that “no competent witnesses were called” by the petitioners to support their appeal.
In a statement that was co-signed by Osaro, Emwanta, and Benjamin Igbinovia Obaseki, the family of the former governor congratulated Okpebholo on his well-earned triumph at the Tribunal. In addition to praising Okpebholo’s administration, the family noted that it will be eight years of reforms and performance.
The statement read, “The judiciary again has proven they are the hope of the people and a pillar for which justice and democracy shall continually stand.”
“Meanwhile, you have demonstrated that you have come to protect and build a new Edo where every resident and visitor will have a memorable lifetime share of the dividends of Democracy.”
“Your stand and support against illegal and oppressive unions dues collections, the awards of road contracts, public service and Local Government reforms, industrial investments and economic revival are signs that you are ready to build Edo of our collective dream.”
“You have started well, and God will help you to end well. It is going to be eight years of performance and reforms”
“Once again, congratulations from the House of the Obasekis.”
