By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
The Edo State High Court’s pre-hearing session for the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal was thrown into disarray on Monday when suspected APC thugs stormed the court, attacking supporters of opposition parties. The tribunal was reviewing petitions challenging the September 21, 2024, governorship election results declared by INEC, which saw APC’s Monday Okpebholo declared winner.
One eyewitness described the scene: “We were just outside the court when the thugs descended on us. It was chaotic, and we didn’t know where to run.” The violence escalated as APC supporters clashed with those backing the PDP and six other political parties. In response, security forces barricaded the court and set up roadblocks to prevent further violence.
Despite the disruption, the tribunal proceeded with its work, addressing petitions from the PDP and six other parties contesting the election result. The PDP has specifically requested the tribunal to annul the election and declare their candidate, Asue Ighodalo, as the rightful winner.
As the tribunal resumes, “The tribunal has to make sure it delivers a fair and transparent judgment,” said a legal expert, urging for calm and respect for the rule of law amidst the mounting political tensions.
This incident highlights the growing volatility surrounding Nigeria’s election petition process. The act of intimidation through thuggery not only undermines the legal proceedings but also raises serious concerns about the security of judicial systems in politically charged environments. It remains to be seen how the tribunal will handle both the legal challenges and the disruptive political forces at play.
In my view, this use of violence to disrupt legal proceedings is deeply troubling. It speaks to a larger issue of political intolerance and the erosion of trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions. For democracy to thrive, peaceful and lawful processes must be respected by all parties, regardless of the electoral outcome.
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