Record-Breaking Tribunal Drama: 290 Witnesses Set To Testify In Edo Election Case

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the All Progressives Congress (APC), and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) are set to present a combined total of 290 witnesses at the ongoing Edo State governorship election petition tribunal.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The PDP’s candidate in the September 21 governorship election, Asue Ighodalo, filed a petition urging the tribunal to annul the victory of the APC candidate, Monday Okpebholo.

Tribunal chairman Justice Wilfred Kpochi revealed on Saturday that the parties had agreed to the witness count and scheduled the next hearing for January 13, 2025. Petitioners have 21 days to present their witnesses, while respondents are allotted 10 days each.

Justice Kpochi outlined the proceedings schedule, stating that the tribunal would convene daily at 10 a.m., excluding Sundays and public holidays. Examination and cross-examination times were also finalized, with star witnesses allotted 40 minutes for direct examination, 30 minutes for cross-examination by the petitioners, and 20 minutes by each respondent. Other witnesses will receive 25 minutes for direct examination and 10 minutes for re-examination.

The chairman confirmed that only witnesses with pre-submitted sworn statements would testify, with subpoenaed witnesses allowed if necessary. Interpreters will be available for testimonies requiring translation between English and local dialects such as Benin, Esan, and Auchi. The tribunal also decided against consolidating the petition with others, as no such application was submitted.