The much-anticipated Edo State Election Petition Tribunal proceedings were unexpectedly postponed during the opening session on Monday.
The delay followed an application by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Governor Monday Okpebholo, who cited a conflicting Supreme Court hearing scheduled for Tuesday, January 14, 2025.
During the tribunal’s session, the Assistant Secretary read the application, emphasizing the respondents’ inability to adhere to the current tribunal schedule due to their commitment to the Supreme Court case in Abuja. The application requested that proceedings be rescheduled to Wednesday, January 15, 2025.
The petitioners’ legal team raised concerns about the short notice, noting that they were only informed of the adjournment request on January 12, 2025. Despite their reservations, they agreed to the postponement on the condition that the respondents would not seek additional delays that could hinder the tribunal’s progress.
Outside the tribunal, political tensions were evident. Goodluck Osaretin, a People’s Democratic Party (PDP) member, criticized the adjournment.
He said, “This smacks of delay tactics, just like their earlier attempts to prevent our inspection of the BVAS machines. Still, we are confident in Barrister Asue’s experienced legal team. They may delay justice, but they cannot deny it. The APC colluded with INEC to rig this election, and we are here to reclaim our stolen mandate.”
