- Former deputy governor, Odubu, heads APC transition committee
The Edo State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party announced on Monday that it has filed a petition to challenge the outcome of the September 21 governorship election.
Speaking at a press conference in Benin, the party’s state chairman, Tony Aziegbemi, confirmed that the PDP successfully filed the petition on Saturday, narrowly beating the deadline, despite facing obstacles.
Aziegbemi accused the Independent National Electoral Commission of attempting to frustrate the PDP’s right to contest the election results at the tribunal but reassured members that the party would reclaim its “stolen mandate.”
He urged the people of Edo to remain hopeful, insisting that no hindrance would prevent the PDP from winning the case.
“We have filed our petition before the election tribunal on your behalf. I assure you that the journey to reclaim our mandate has begun, and by God’s grace, it will be retrieved,” Aziegbemi said.
He also criticised INEC for allegedly delaying the release of the Certified True Copies of electoral materials, saying, “Despite INEC acting as the political wing of the APC, we were still able to do the needful.”
Aziegbemi denied claims that the PDP disrupted the inspection of electoral materials at the INEC office, questioning, “In whose interest would it be to disrupt a process we applied for and were granted permission by the court to carry out?”
He further revealed that more PDP members have been arrested post-election and alleged that those accused in connection with the killing of Inspector Akor Onuh were released after paying about N64 million in bails.
“More of our members have been arrested on false allegations of killing SP Akor. How low can the police go under this biased IGP, who seems to be leading the APC’s armed wing?” he added.
Former deputy governor, Odubu, heads APC transition committee
In a related development, a former Edo State Deputy Governor, Pius Odubu, will lead the All Progressives Congress transition committee team that will work with the outgoing administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki.
This was contained in a letter by the acting chairman of the APC, Jarrett Tenebe, made available to journalists in Benin.
Others are Matthew Urhoghide, Osagie Ize-lyamu, Andrew Enwanta, Washington Osifo, Nosa Adams, Omosede Igbinedion, Paul Ohonbamu, Edo Omorogieva, Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe, Taiwo Akerele, Godwin Eshieshie, Yakson Musa
Also included on the list are Kazeem Afegbua, Ohio Omo-Ezomo, Gani Audu, Dr. Aminu Imafidon, Prof Oyaziwo Aluede, Prof. Eunice Omonzejie, Matthew Egbadon, Dr.Tony Ikpasaja, Felix Akhabue, Kingsley Ehigiamusor and Dr. Frank Omoh.
The letter dated October 14, 2024, read, “I write to acknowledge the receipt of your letter requesting the Governor-Elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo and the All Progressive Congress, to initiate the formation of a transition team to work with your side.
“We however look forward to a smooth and effective collaboration with our 24-member Committee, headed by Chief Pius Odubu as Chairman, for meaningful discussions that will lead to a seamless transition process.
“Attached herewith is the list. Your commitment is highly appreciated.”
The Edo State Government had written to Okpebholo to initiate the formation of his transition team.
In a letter dated October 10, 2024, Secretary to the State Government, Joseph Eboigbe, said establishing the team would allow both parties to begin meaningful discussions and share vital information that would ensure a seamless transfer of responsibilities and continuity of governance.
The letter read, “I hope this message finds you in great spirits. As we prepare for the transition of power, we believe it is crucial to establish a smooth and effective collaboration between your team and the current administration.
“To facilitate this process, we invite you and your party, the All Progressives Congress, to initiate the formation of your transition team at your earliest convenience.
“Establishing this team will allow us to begin meaningful discussions and share vital information that will ensure a seamless transfer of responsibilities and continuity of governance.”
