Copies of an unsigned document, allegedly containing the judgment of the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, have surfaced online, causing a stir ahead of the official ruling.
The document, linked to the petition filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asuerime Ighodalo, against the victory of Governor Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), appeared online less than 24 hours before the tribunal is set to deliver its verdict on Wednesday, April 2, 2025.
The leaked document suggests a split decision among the tribunal’s three justices. Justice Wilfred Kpochi, the tribunal chairman, and Justice A. B. Yusuf reportedly ruled in favor of Okpebholo, dismissing the PDP’s claims and stating that while irregularities occurred, they were not substantial enough to alter the election’s outcome. However, Justice A. A. Adewole dissented, declaring the election invalid and ordering the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to issue a fresh Certificate of Return to Ighodalo, citing non-compliance with the Electoral Act.
With no official confirmation yet, the leak has triggered intense speculation and debate over whether the document reflects the tribunal’s final judgment or is merely an unverified draft.
