The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has adjourned proceedings to March 3, allowing parties to adopt their final written addresses after the All Progressives Congress (APC) decided to close its case.
This decision followed APC’s announcement that they would not present additional witnesses to defend Governor Monday Okpebholo’s victory in the September 21, 2024 election.
Despite previously stating they had 28 witnesses lined up, only four were presented during the trial, with three alleging incidents of over-voting. However, they noted that the results from the affected polling units were cancelled.
APC’s lead counsel, Ferdinand Orbih (SAN), explained, “Yesterday, we promised to present 28 witnesses.
However, after a comprehensive review and considering that the documents are still in Benin, we have decided not to proceed with calling additional witnesses.”
Orbih further emphasized the importance of not wasting the tribunal’s time, stating, “My Lords, time is of the essence, and we do not want to waste the tribunal’s time. We are happy to close the third respondent’s case if it pleases your Lordships.”
Neither the petitioners nor the respondents objected to the closure of the case, prompting the tribunal to adjourn until March 3 for the filing of final written addresses.