Supreme Court Upholds Okpebholo’s Victory, Affirms INEC’s Credibility in Edo Governorship Election

In a landmark judgment that has strengthened public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions, the Supreme Court has affirmed Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the duly elected Governor of Edo State. The ruling, delivered on [July 10, 2025], not only cements Okpebholo’s victory in the September 21, 2024, governorship election but also serves as a resounding endorsement of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections. This decision marks a triumph for the rule of law, the will of the Edo people, and the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process.

A Victory for Democracy

The Supreme Court’s unanimous decision, delivered by a five-member panel led by Justice Lawal Garba, dismissed an appeal filed by Asue Ighodalo, the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), who had challenged the outcome of the Edo State governorship election. Ighodalo’s legal team alleged over-voting, non-compliance with the Electoral Act, and other irregularities, but the apex court ruled that the appellants failed to provide substantial evidence to support their claims. The court noted that the PDP contested results in only 395 out of 4,519 polling units, and even in those instances, their witnesses and evidence were insufficient to demonstrate any significant breach of electoral laws.

This ruling underscores a critical principle: elections are won at the polling units, not through courtroom battles or media campaigns. It also reaffirms the judiciary’s role as the last hope of the common man, ensuring that the mandate of the electorate is protected against baseless challenges. The Supreme Court’s verdict has been widely hailed as a victory for democracy, reinforcing the importance of credible evidence in election petitions and discouraging frivolous litigation aimed at overturning the people’s will.

INEC’s Professionalism Vindicated

At the heart of this victory is the Independent National Electoral Commission, led nationally by Prof. Mahmood Yakubu and in Edo State by Resident Electoral Commissioner Prof. Anugbum Onuoha. The September 21, 2024, governorship election in Edo State has been described as one of the most transparent, free, and fair in Nigeria’s recent democratic history. Despite facing significant challenges, including sponsored attacks, smear campaigns, and baseless allegations aimed at discrediting their work, INEC remained steadfast in its duty to deliver a credible electoral process.

Prof. Yakubu and Prof. Onuoha demonstrated remarkable professionalism and resilience in the face of adversity. Critics who sought to tarnish their reputations with unfounded accusations have been left with no choice but to reconsider their tactics. The Supreme Court’s ruling has silenced these detractors, affirming that INEC adhered strictly to the Electoral Act and upheld the principles of transparency and fairness. This judgment serves as a powerful reminder that attempts to undermine democratic institutions through defamation and propaganda will not prevail when the truth is laid bare.

A Lesson for Political Actors

The Supreme Court’s decision carries a broader message for Nigeria’s political class: the will of the people is paramount, and attempts to manipulate public perception or discredit electoral officials for political gain are futile. The judiciary’s clarity in dismissing the PDP’s appeal highlights the need for political actors to focus on substantive issues and credible evidence rather than resorting to sensationalism or smear campaigns. Such actions not only undermine democratic institutions but also erode public trust in the electoral process.

The ruling also emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation in election petitions. The court’s observation that the PDP’s challenge lacked sufficient evidence to overturn the election results serves as a cautionary tale for future litigants. Elections are a reflection of the people’s choice, and any attempt to challenge that choice must be grounded in verifiable facts, not speculation or conjecture.

Commending the Judiciary

The justices of the Supreme Court deserve commendation for their unwavering commitment to justice and democracy. Their meticulous review of the evidence and adherence to legal principles have reinforced the judiciary’s reputation as a bastion of fairness and accountability. By upholding Okpebholo’s victory, the court has sent a clear message that it will not be swayed by political pressures or media narratives. This verdict restores faith in the electoral process and reaffirms the judiciary’s role in safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy.

A New Chapter for Edo State

With the legal battles now behind him, Senator Monday Okpebholo can focus on delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Edo State. His victory reflects the trust that the electorate has placed in him to lead the state toward progress and prosperity. The APC’s triumph in Edo State is a testament to the party’s grassroots mobilization and its ability to connect with voters on issues that matter most.

As Governor Okpebholo assumes office, the expectations are high. The people of Edo State have spoken, and their mandate is clear. It is now incumbent upon the new administration to build on the foundation of this victory by addressing the state’s pressing challenges, including infrastructure development, job creation, and improved access to education and healthcare.

Gratitude to INEC’s Leadership

The contributions of Prof. Mahmood Yakubu and Prof. Anugbum Onuoha to Nigeria’s democratic progress cannot be overstated. Their courage, integrity, and dedication have ensured that the will of the Edo people was accurately captured and defended. Despite facing relentless attacks, they remained focused on their mandate, delivering an election that has been upheld by the nation’s highest court. Their names will be remembered as champions of democracy, whose service has strengthened Nigeria’s electoral system.

A Call to Strengthen Democratic Institutions

The Supreme Court’s ruling is a clarion call for all stakeholders to support and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions. INEC, the judiciary, and other key players must continue to work together to ensure that elections remain free, fair, and credible. Political actors, civil society organizations, and the media have a responsibility to promote constructive dialogue and avoid actions that undermine public confidence in the electoral process.

As Nigeria continues its democratic journey, the Edo State governorship election and its aftermath serve as a powerful example of what is possible when institutions function effectively. The collaboration between INEC and the judiciary has demonstrated that Nigeria’s democracy is resilient and capable of withstanding challenges when guided by truth and justice.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s affirmation of Senator Monday Okpebholo as Edo State Governor is a triumph for democracy, the rule of law, and the will of the people. It is a victory for INEC, whose professionalism and integrity have been vindicated in the face of adversity. The ruling sends a strong message to political actors: elections are won through the votes of the people, not through smear campaigns or frivolous litigation.

As Edo State embarks on a new chapter under Governor Okpebholo’s leadership, the nation celebrates a democratic process that has been upheld by the judiciary and executed with excellence by INEC. To Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, Prof. Anugbum Onuoha, and the justices of the Supreme Court, Nigeria owes a debt of gratitude. Democracy has won, and Nigeria is stronger for it.