By Milcah Tanimu
Unidentified thugs stormed the Edo State High Court in Benin City on Monday, attempting to disrupt the pre-hearing session on the disputed September 21 governorship election results.
The governorship election saw Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) declared the winner with 291,667 votes. However, the results are being contested by seven opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP).
Chaos at the Court
Supporters of opposition parties were present at the tribunal when attackers targeted them outside the courtroom. Swift action by security personnel ensured the safety of those inside, as officers blocked the court entrance and set up roadblocks along access routes.
Election Results Under Scrutiny
Okpebholo defeated PDP’s Asue Ighodalo, who garnered 247,274 votes, while the Labour Party candidate, Olumide Akpata, secured 22,763 votes. The APC claimed victory in 11 of the state’s 18 local government areas, while the PDP won in seven.
Heightened Tensions
The attack underscores growing tensions around the tribunal’s proceedings as political parties continue to challenge the legitimacy of the election results. The hearing will determine the fate of Okpebholo’s victory amid allegations of electoral malpractice.
