The relocation of the Edo State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal from Benin City to Abuja, as announced by the tribunal secretary, Muazu Bagudu, has been hailed as a decisive and positive development in the journey toward justice.
In a statement by its spokesperson, Erhabor Emokpae on Friday in Benin City, the state capital, Team Asue Media Organisation (TAMO) said that, while the reason for the relocation has not been officially stated, “it is clear that this move, one we welcome, ensures a more secure and neutral environment for the proceedings, free from the pressures and tensions surrounding the tribunal in Edo State”.
TAMO added that “in line with our continuing commitment to truth and justice, this relocation is a reaffirmation of our firm belief in the judiciary’s dedication to fairness and transparency.
“By moving the tribunal to the National Judicial Institute in Abuja, the process is shielded from local interference, ensuring that justice will be based solely on evidence and legal merit.
“Despite their public bravado, the APC’s (All Progressives Congress) recent pattern of obstruction — from preventing BVAS (Bimodal Voter Accreditation System) inspections to witness intimidation and threats of violence —has repeatedly shown their only mission: to tilt the judicial scales in their favour and subvert due process.
“This relocation removes any leverage they might have hoped to exert locally, allowing the tribunal to operate in a secure and impartial setting.
“We firmly believe that Asue Ighodalo’s case, founded on evidence and meticulous legal preparation, remains unshaken. The overwhelming strength of the petition continues to give confidence to all who value democracy and the rule of law.
“This relocation ensures that the case will expose the full truth of what happened in the election. We urge all supporters of truth and justice to remain resolute as the journey to Justice proceeds apace”.
