Mixed reactions trail Supreme Court’s affirmation of Okpebholo’s election as Edo governor

Summary

• Tinubu, Akpabio, and Southern Governors celebrate judgment as victory for democracy
• Ighodalo, PDP express disappointment, allege justice was not served
• Okpebholo extends olive branch, pledges unity and inclusive governance

Abuja, Nigeria – The Supreme Court’s unanimous verdict affirming Senator Monday Okpebholo as the duly elected Governor of Edo State has elicited a spectrum of reactions from political leaders, institutions, and the public, highlighting deep divisions over the outcome of the 2024 governorship election.

The judgment, delivered on Thursday, 10 July 2025, by a five-member panel led by Justice Mohammed Garba, dismissed the appeal filed by Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate Asue Ighodalo, citing lack of credible evidence to support claims of electoral malpractice. It upheld previous rulings by the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal and the Court of Appeal, confirming Okpebholo’s victory under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

President Bola Tinubu led the congratulatory messages, urging Okpebholo to embrace all Edo people and ensure an inclusive administration. Tinubu also commended the APC for its resilience throughout the legal process.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio hailed the ruling as a triumph for democracy, praising Okpebholo’s performance in office and the judiciary’s role in defending the people’s will.

The Southern Governors’ Forum, chaired by Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, described the judgment as a reinforcement of the mandate given by Edo voters.

Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, called it a “resounding affirmation of democratic integrity,” while the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said the ruling further validated the credibility of the electoral process.

Governor Okpebholo welcomed the decision as a “landmark ruling” that reflects the true wishes of Edo citizens. He dedicated his victory to all residents of the state and reached out to his opponents, calling for unity to focus on governance and development. He also pledged to align his agenda with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope vision.

However, the response from the opposition was less celebratory. Asue Ighodalo expressed deep dissatisfaction, insisting that justice was not served and reiterating that he secured the majority of lawful votes. His legal counsel, Ken Mosia, questioned the court’s interpretation of evidence.

Former Edo Governor Godwin Obaseki accepted the ruling but voiced disappointment, suggesting that Nigeria’s democracy still faced challenges.

The Edo State PDP, through Chairman Tony Aziegbemi, acknowledged the verdict with “mixed feelings,” stating it was not the end of their quest for good governance and democratic accountability in Edo State.

With the legal battle now settled, Governor Okpebholo is expected to proceed with his administration’s agenda without further judicial hindrances. Nonetheless, the contrasting reactions to the Supreme Court’s decision underscore the political tensions that continue to shape Edo’s democratic landscape.