PDP’s allegations of electoral malpractice do not align with the realities of the September 21, 2024, governorship election ......Felix Osemwengie Isere, Esq

PDP’s allegations of electoral malpractice do not align with the realities of the September 21, 2024, governorship election ......Felix Osemwengie Isere, Esq. 

The ongoing Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal proceedings have sparked significant public interest, but it is crucial to resist any attempts by the opposition to blackmail the judiciary into delivering a predetermined outcome. The rule of law must prevail, and justice should be served based on facts, evidence, and due process—not media narratives or political pressure.

The relocation of the tribunal to Abuja was a decision made by the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, based on security concerns. However, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and its sympathizers have sought to twist this development into a conspiracy theory, insinuating that the move is designed to influence the tribunal’s outcome in favor of the All Progressives Congress (APC). This baseless claim is an affront to the integrity of the judiciary and a clear attempt to discredit the tribunal before it even delivers its judgment.

Furthermore, PDP’s allegations of electoral malpractice do not align with the realities of the September 21, 2024, governorship election. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) conducted the election transparently, and Senator Monday Okpebholo of the APC emerged victorious with a clear margin of 44,012 votes. If the PDP truly had a watertight case, it would not resort to blackmailing the tribunal through public opinion but instead focus on presenting compelling evidence in court.

It is also telling that INEC, which conducted the election, reviewed the case and opted not to call witnesses—perhaps an indication that the PDP’s petition lacks merit. The opposition, rather than accepting the will of the people, is now attempting to manufacture a crisis through unfounded allegations of external influence.

I am speaking not as a Special Adviser to the governor with a vested interest but as a lawyer who has been in the full struggle for democracy in Nigeria.   Nigeria’s democracy depends on the independence of the judiciary, and the judiciary must be allowed to function without intimidation or undue pressure. The Edo Tribunal must not be swayed by PDP’s desperate tactics but must uphold the law without fear or favor. Edo people voted, and their votes must count. The will of the electorate should not be overturned based on propaganda, blackmail, or political maneuvering.

Justice is not about emotions or media trials—it is about facts and the law. The Edo State Governorship Election Tribunal should be allowed to do its work independently, free from political coercion, to ensure that democracy is protected and upheld.