The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Asue Ighodalo’s camps are in serious disarray, as their hope in the ongoing tribunal has yet again, suffered a major setback, following the decision of the winner of the 21st September, 2024 governorship election in Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo to present only one witness.
In what could best be described as a mockery of the shambolic case presented by the PDP and Ighodalo, the decision by Okpebholo is seen by legal experts as a master clap back that has completely removed the life support from PDP’s already dying case.
At the opening of the case, the sole witness of Governor Okpebholo from ward 7, unit 4, Ovia South West, Majek Osumah, testified that the election was conducted under a peaceful atmosphere. He, however, noted that the result of ward 7, unit 4, was cancelled due to over-voting.
In his evidence, he stated that he worked as the polling unit agent and that in the form EC8B (which is the result sheet at ward level), the column for the result of his unit had no record.
He said the cancellation came when they discovered that there was over-voting. He argued that they protested and the ward collation officer listened to their complaints and cancelled the results.
After his cross examination, counsel to Okpebholo, Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN, announced that his case is closed with the testimony of the sole witness.
Thereafter, Chairman of the tribunal, Justice Wilfred Kpochi, adjourned the matter to Wednesday, February 12, 2025, for APC to open its defence.
The decision by INEC and the APC shows that the petition by the PDP and Ighodalo is not worth their time. It lacks substance and it seen a mockery and a stain to the calibre of legal professionals arraigned by the legal team of Governor Monday Okpebholo and the APC.
“The onus of proof is on him that alleges. Since the challengers have failed woefully in proving their case, it is needless and time wasting for the APC to begin to massage the ego of the PDP by presenting witnesses. No need dignifying with a response, where none is expected,” one of the lawyers to Okpebholo told newsmen.
“The response of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the APC is both strategic, stunning and iconic,” APC State Chairman, Jarret Tenebe added.
“Interesting days are here indeed. All of a sudden, the joy of the PDP and their supporters have been cut short. No where to lean on again for support. No one is even willing to give them the opportunity to rant and let out their frustrations. It is sad indeed. These are hard times for Asue, the PDP and their supporters. The party of orphans is left drenched in the rain as they look on, hopelessly, frustrated.
“Ighodalo, the once self acclaimed legal icon is taking Legal Method 101 lessons from Monday Okpebholo, the artesian. What an interesting time to be a Nigerian. Truly, interesting days are upon us!” Tenebe added.
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