Nigeria Today Magazine General News APC, PDP Trade Words as Edo Tribunal Moves to Abuja

APC, PDP Trade Words as Edo Tribunal Moves to Abuja



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The All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State have clashed over the decision to relocate the governorship election petition tribunal from Benin City to Abuja.

A statement signed by the tribunal secretary, Mu’azu Ibrahim, dated January 24, 2025, announced that the tribunal would now sit at the National Judicial Institute (NJI), Airport Road, Abuja, effective Monday, January 27, 2025. Although no official reason was provided, the relocation is believed to be linked to disturbances previously reported at the tribunal premises.

Reacting to the decision, Edo APC spokesperson Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigie accused the PDP of influencing the move. According to him, “The PDP claimed their witnesses didn’t feel safe in Benin City, which is untrue since they had access to the court. They are simply frustrated because their witnesses have not provided substantial evidence to strengthen their case. The relocation is likely an attempt to reduce public scrutiny and media attention.” Uwadiae-Igbinigie added that the APC is confident in its legal team and ready to confront the PDP at the Abuja tribunal.

In contrast, Chris Nehikhare, spokesperson for the Edo PDP caretaker committee, argued that the move was necessitated by threats and pressure from APC members, which jeopardized the safety of tribunal proceedings in Benin City. “The tribunal likely moved to ensure a neutral and secure environment, free from external influences, to guarantee justice,” Nehikhare said.

The tribunal is scheduled to resume hearings in Abuja on Tuesday, January 28, 2025.

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