By Hassanat Adebowale
Tensions flared in Benin City on Wednesday as gunshots rang out near the Edo Election Petition Tribunal, leading to a heated exchange of accusations between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
In a viral video, a youth wearing a PDP cap was seen emerging from an unregistered white Toyota Hilux and firing shots into the air on Reservation Street, near Ezoti Junction, next to the High Court complex. The gunfire caused panic among passersby and echoed into the tribunal venue, creating a tense atmosphere.
Passersby appeared startled, while nearby armed policemen seemed unable to intervene. The youth was heard shouting, “Give us our mandate,” before he and another individual entered the Hilux and sped away.
APC Chairman Jarrett Tenebe accused PDP supporters of orchestrating the attack, condemning the use of violence to resolve disputes. “Today’s shooting incident within the venue of the Governorship Election Tribunal in Benin City involving members of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party is a deeply disturbing and unacceptable act of violence,” Tenebe said. “Regardless of political affiliation, resorting to violence to resolve disputes is never justifiable.”
In response, Tony Aziegbemi, acting chairman of the state PDP Caretaker Committee, denied the allegations, calling them false and preposterous. He accused the APC of deploying thugs disguised in PDP attire to disrupt the legal process and tarnish the PDP’s image.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, led by Justice Wilfred Kpochi, commenced a full hearing on the seven petitions challenging the declaration of Governor Monday Okpebholo of the APC as the winner of the 2024 Edo State Governorship Election.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared Okpebholo the winner of the September 21, 2024, election with 291,667 votes, defeating Ighodalo of the PDP, who received 247,274 votes. Unsatisfied with the declaration, Ighodalo, the PDP, and other parties challenged the election results in court.
During the hearing, Dr. Bright Enabulele, the Accord Party candidate, presented three witnesses to support his petition. Witnesses testified about irregularities, including ballot stuffing, during the election.
The case was adjourned to Thursday for the continuation of the hearing.
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