The Edo State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal has announced the relocation of its proceedings from Benin City to Abuja due to security concerns and to ensure an impartial judicial process. The Tribunal Secretary, Muazu Ibrahim Bagudu, confirmed that sittings would resume at the National Judicial Institute (NJI) in Abuja, starting Monday, January 27, 2025.
This move follows a session where a data analyst and expert witness presented extensive forensic evidence of alleged electoral malpractice in the September 21, 2024 governorship election. The witness’s testimony reportedly lasted several hours and included detailed claims of irregularities. This led to objections from the respondents’ counsels, who requested an adjournment for further preparation to cross-examine the witness. The Tribunal granted the adjournment but confirmed that the Benin City hearings would be the last before relocating to Abuja.
Earlier, the Tribunal Chairman, Justice Wilfred Kpochi, had indicated that the venue might be moved to Abuja, though it was not yet confirmed. However, it has now been officially announced, with reports suggesting the move was prompted by security threats and concerns about external influence on the proceedings.
Unconfirmed reports suggest that threats to witnesses and pressure from political figures in Edo may have influenced the decision to relocate. Tensions have been high between the two major political parties involved in the case— the PDP and APC— with allegations of witness intimidation and threats of violence. The APC State Chairman, Jarret Tenebe, had publicly threatened to arrest witnesses testifying against Governor Monday Okpebholo, raising further concerns.
The tribunal, which is hearing the PDP’s petition contesting the APC’s victory in the election, will resume its proceedings at the NJI in Abuja, where the case will continue. The PDP had rejected the results declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), citing irregularities in the election.
