Monday Okpebholo vs PDP: APC clinches final victory at Supreme Court
Supreme Court upholds Okpebholo’s election
The legal battle for Edo State’s governorship reached its conclusion on Thursday, July 10, as the Supreme Court of Nigeria affirmed the election of Governor Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), dismissing the appeal filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo.
Supreme Court Upholds the Mandate of Monday Okpebholo
The apex court dismissed the PDP’s challenge, which sought to nullify the victory of Governor Okpebholo in the 2024 gubernatorial election. The court ruled that the petition lacked merit and upheld the earlier decisions of the lower tribunal and Court of Appeal, both of which had validated the APC candidate’s win.
The PDP had claimed that the election was marred by irregularities, including issues with voter accreditation and the alleged exclusion of their party’s logo in certain constituencies. However, the justices stated that the petitioners failed to provide sufficient evidence to substantiate their claims.
What This Means for Edo State’s Political Landscape
With the Supreme Court’s ruling, Monday Okpebholo now officially retains his seat as the democratically elected Governor of Edo State. This decision not only ends months of political uncertainty but also reaffirms the APC’s grip in a state that has oscillated between the PDP and APC in recent years.
The verdict is expected to stabilize governance in the state, allowing the Okpebholo administration to proceed without further legal distractions. Supporters of the governor celebrated the judgment as a win for democracy and a testament to the will of the people.
Reactions from Political Stakeholders
In his reaction, Governor Okpebholo expressed gratitude to the judiciary and the people of Edo State, reaffirming his commitment to delivering on his campaign promises. “The judiciary has once again shown that justice will always prevail,” he stated shortly after the verdict.
Meanwhile, PDP’s candidate Asue Ighodalo accepted the ruling but emphasized the need for electoral reform. In a brief statement, he urged his supporters to remain calm and continue engaging constructively in the democratic process.
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Background of the Legal Dispute
The 2024 Edo governorship election had been hotly contested, with Monday Okpebholo declared winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). His closest rival, Asue Ighodalo of the PDP, immediately rejected the results and pursued legal action through the tribunal.
The case passed through the electoral tribunal and the Court of Appeal, both of which dismissed the PDP’s petition. The final appeal at the Supreme Court was viewed as the last legal opportunity to challenge Okpebholo’s victory, making Thursday’s ruling the definitive end of the legal road.
Looking Ahead: Second Chance for Monday Okpebholo
With the court battle now behind him, political analysts believe Okpebholo must seize this moment to unify the state and fulfill his administration’s promises. Issues like infrastructure, youth empowerment, and security remain top on the agenda.
His supporters argue that the legal victories have not only solidified his legitimacy but also given him a fresh mandate to drive meaningful reforms across the state. Observers will now be watching to see how his administration responds in the months ahead.
