The Edo State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal, chaired by Justice Wilfred Kpochi, announced on Saturday that a total of 290 witnesses will testify when hearings resume on January 13, 2025. This development follows agreements reached by the parties during pre-hearing sessions.
Justice Kpochi, while reading the adopted pre-hearing report, outlined the timeframe and procedures for witness examination. Star witnesses will have 40 minutes for their examination-in-chief, 30 minutes for cross-examination by the petitioners, and 20 minutes for cross-examination by each respondent. Re-examinations for star witnesses will be limited to 10 minutes, while other witnesses will have 25 minutes for their examination-in-chief.
Petitioners are expected to call their witnesses within 21 days, with respondents allotted 10 days each. The tribunal will sit daily from 10 a.m., excluding Sundays and public holidays.
The case arises from the September 21, 2024, governorship election, where the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) the winner with 291,667 votes. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Asue Ighodalo, who garnered 247,274 votes, is contesting the result alongside his party.
Witnesses whose statements on oath were pre-filed will be called, and subpoenaed witnesses may also testify as needed. Additionally, interpreters will be provided for witnesses requiring translation to and from native languages, including Benin, Esan, and Auchi dialects.
Justice Kpochi confirmed there would be no consolidation of this petition with others and no amendments to the case would be entertained. The tribunal has urged parties to adhere to the agreed procedures to ensure a smooth and efficient hearing process.
The tribunal’s decision marks a critical step in addressing the challenges raised by the petitioners, as the state awaits the outcome of this high-stakes legal contest.
