Edo State Government Stands Firm Against Federal Control Amid Legal Challenges

APC Expects Victory for Governor Monday Okpebholo Amid Tribunal Ruling

As the Edo Governorship Election Petition Tribunal gears up to deliver its verdict, the All Progressives Congress (APC) is brimming with optimism about securing a favorable outcome for its candidate, Governor Monday Okpebholo. The political climate in Edo State has been electric, and the APC is holding firm to its belief that justice will prevail in this high-stakes legal battle. The tribunal's decision, scheduled for Wednesday, promises to be a defining moment for the state's political landscape.

Speaking in the nation's capital, Abuja, on Tuesday, Jarrett Tenebe, the Chairman of the Edo State APC, emphasized the party's unwavering faith in the judiciary. He expressed confidence that the tribunal would respect the democratic will of the people of Edo State, who, according to Tenebe, had clearly chosen the APC and its candidate during the September 21, 2024, election. This is a momentous occasion for the APC, and the party is determined to see it through with grace and dignity.

"We have full confidence in our legal team and the judiciary. Our lawyers have done an excellent job, and we are hopeful that justice will prevail," Tenebe said, urging all APC supporters in Edo State to maintain composure and patience while waiting for the tribunal’s verdict. In a political climate rife with tension, this call for calm is a reminder of the importance of respecting the rule of law and the democratic process.

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APC Accuses PDP of Orchestrating Violence to Influence Tribunal

Tenebe didn’t shy away from leveling accusations against the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He accused the PDP of instigating violence in an attempt to sway public perception and judicial sentiment in their favor. According to Tenebe, some members of the PDP were allegedly behind the recent killings in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area, which have drawn widespread attention. These actions, Tenebe argued, are part of a desperate attempt to manipulate the situation and influence the tribunal's decision.

"Their goal is clear: to create chaos and force President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Edo State, as they have lost confidence in securing victory at the tribunal. In their desperation, they are resorting to acts of sabotage," Tenebe explained. He described the violence in Uromi as a calculated move to destabilize the region and sway the tribunal's decision, a tactic he believes is both unethical and counterproductive.

Tenebe further alleged that the opposition was exploiting disbanded members of the Edo State Security Network to carry out these attacks. He accused the PDP of trying to falsely implicate the Edo State Government, hoping to garner public sympathy for their cause. This, he said, was a sign of their desperation and a lack of faith in their legal case.

APC Criticizes PDP's Hypocrisy and Calls for Accountability

Tenebe also took the opportunity to criticize what he described as the PDP's hypocrisy. He pointed out their criticism of Governor Okpebholo for traveling to Kano State to offer condolences to victims' families, labeling it as an example of their desperation. "Their criticism of the governor’s visit to Kano exposes their involvement in the Uromi violence," Tenebe remarked. He added that the PDP was attempting to manipulate the narrative to their advantage, but the APC was determined not to fall for their tactics.

In addition to calling out the PDP, Tenebe urged security agencies to apprehend those responsible for the violence. He stressed that terrorism and violence have no place in Nigeria and that those involved must be held accountable for their actions. "We will formally write to foreign embassies and international bodies to request the extradition of these PDP members who are inciting violence," Tenebe said, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.

"No amount of blackmail or intimidation will prevent Governor Okpebholo from emerging victorious at the tribunal. The people of Edo have spoken, and their mandate will not be stolen through underhanded tactics," Tenebe concluded, reinforcing the APC's commitment to upholding the people's will.

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Leaked Tribunal Judgment Sparks Controversy

In the midst of the political drama, a purported copy of the tribunal's judgment has surfaced online, just a day after the tribunal summoned the parties involved to appear before it. This development has sparked controversy and raised questions about the integrity of the legal process. The three-member tribunal, led by Justice Wilfred Kpochi, had previously reserved its judgment in the case filed by the PDP and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, challenging the outcome of the September 2024 governorship election.

With the stakes higher than ever, all eyes are on the tribunal as it prepares to deliver its verdict. The outcome of this case will not only determine the future leadership of Edo State but will also set a precedent for the conduct of future elections and legal challenges across the country. Whatever the verdict, it is clear that the people of Edo State are eager to see justice served and their voices heard.