Tensions flared in Benin City on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, as gunshots disrupted proceedings at the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal. The tribunal is reviewing petitions challenging the September 21, 2024, gubernatorial election, which declared Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner.
Hoodlums reportedly gathered outside the tribunal, causing panic as shots were fired, forcing people to flee for safety. The APC’s Okpebholo was declared winner with 291,667 votes, followed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Asue Ighodalo, who secured 247,274 votes. Labour Party’s Olumide Akpata trailed with 22,763 votes.
Both the PDP and APC have accused each other of orchestrating the violence. Emperor Jarret Tenebe, APC Chairman in Edo, condemned the incident, calling it a “disturbing and unacceptable” act and demanding swift justice for those involved.
Conversely, Anthony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, accused the APC of deploying thugs disguised in PDP attire to disrupt the tribunal. He claimed the APC was attempting to sabotage the legal process and tarnish the PDP’s reputation.
The tribunal hearing remains a critical battleground for the PDP, which seeks to overturn Okpebholo’s victory and reclaim the mandate they believe belongs to them. Authorities are yet to confirm arrests or the full extent of the violence.
