Edo Tribunal: PDP, APC, INEC to present 290 witnesses

By : Sola Richards

Date: 22 Dec 2024

Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, his deputy, Philip Shaibu and others celebrating shortly after the state Governorship Election Tribunal ruling in favour of their election in Benin City.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Congress (APC), and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) have announced plans to call 290 witnesses at the Edo State governorship election petition tribunal.

The PDP’s candidate in the September 21 election, Asue Ighodalo, filed a petition challenging the declaration of APC’s Monday Okpebholo as the winner.

Tribunal chairman Justice Wilfred Kpochi revealed on Saturday that the parties had agreed on the number of witnesses.

Hearings were adjourned to January 13, 2025, with petitioners given 21 days to present their witnesses and respondents allocated 10 days each.

Justice Kpochi stated that the tribunal will sit daily from 10 am, except on Sundays and public holidays, adding that examination and cross-examination of witnesses have been time-framed: 40 minutes for star witnesses’ examination-in-chief, 30 minutes for petitioners’ cross-examination, and 20 minutes for respondents’ cross-examination.

Ordinary witnesses will have 25 minutes for examination-in-chief, with 10 minutes for re-examination. Only pre-submitted statements or subpoenaed witnesses will be admitted.

Interpreters will be provided for witnesses needing translation between English and native languages like Benin, Esan, or Auchi dialects.