Supreme Court Declares Okpebholo As Edo State Duly Elected Governor
By Ovie Edomi
The Supreme Court in a judgement delivered today upheld the victory of Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the September 21, 2024, Edo State governorship election.
In a unanimous ruling, a five-member panel of the apex court held that the appellants, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate Asue Ighodalo, failed to establish their case with sufficient and credible evidence.
The court dismissed the appeal and affirmed the May 29 judgement of the Court of Appeal, which earlier upheld the judgement of the election tribunal, affirming Okpebholo’s election.
The judgement brings to a close the legal challenges to Okpebholo’s election, solidifying his position as the Governor of Edo State.
The Supreme Court’s decision is final and binding, and it marks the culmination of a lengthy legal process that began with the election tribunal.
In a statement by Senator Monday Okpebholo Press Secretary, Fred Itua, he noted “the landmark judgement affirmed Senator Monday Okpebholo as the duly elected Governor of Edo State, bringing to a conclusive end all legal contestation arising from the 2024 Governorship Election.
“This definitive verdict is not merely a legal triumph—it is a solemn reaffirmation of the sacred mandate freely given by the people of Edo State. It signals the beginning of a fresh chapter rooted in unity, inclusiveness, and accelerated development.
“His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo, extends profound gratitude to the judiciary for its courage and fidelity to justice, and to the great people of Edo State for their unflinching support, patience, and faith in democracy.
“He views this moment not as a personal victory but as a shared triumph for every Edo citizen, regardless of political, ethnic, or religious affiliation,” he said.
Itua further said that Governor Okpebholo renews his vow to lead with humility, compassion, and accountability.
“His administration remains fully committed to its developmental blueprint—prioritizing security, infrastructure, education, agriculture, healthcare, youth empowerment, and job creation.
“The focus remains clear: to deliver tangible benefits that uplift lives and restore confidence in public leadership,” he noted.
With this verdict, Okpebholo can now focus on delivering on his campaign promises and governing the state without further legal distractions.