Tension Escalates as Suspected Political Thugs Disrupt Edo Gubernatorial Election Tribunal

Chaos erupts at the Edo gubernatorial election tribunal as suspected political thugs invade the court, causing tension and halting proceedings. Explore the details of the disruption and its impact.

On Monday, tensions escalated at the Edo State High Court in Benin City when suspected thugs stormed the premises during a pre-hearing session concerning the contested September 21 governorship election.

In the election, Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) was declared the winner with 291,667 votes. He defeated Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who received 247,274 votes. Olumide Akpata from Labour Party finished in third place with 22,763 votes.

However, seven opposition parties are contesting the election results, with their supporters present in court.

The session turned violent when unknown individuals attacked supporters outside the courtroom in an attempt to disrupt proceedings.

Quick action by security forces prevented further chaos, with officers securing the court entrance and setting up a roadblock on the approach to the premises.

The APC announced wins in 11 out of the 18 local government areas in Edo, while the PDP won seven. The hearing is ongoing, with increased security anticipated for upcoming sessions.