Tension as suspected political thugs invade court, disrupt Edo guber election tribunal

Tensions flared on Monday at the Edo State High Court in Benin City as suspected thugs invaded the premises during a pre-hearing session regarding the disputed September 21 governorship election.

The election had seen Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) declared winner with 291,667 votes, defeating Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who garnered 247,274 votes. Labour Party’s Olumide Akpata came third with 22,763 votes.

The election results, however, are being contested by seven opposition parties, with their supporters present in court.

The session took a violent turn when unidentified individuals attacked supporters outside the courtroom in a bid to disrupt proceedings.

Swift action by security forces averted further chaos, as officers blocked the court entrance and established a roadblock along the route leading to the premises.

The APC claimed victory in 11 of Edo’s 18 local government areas, while the PDP secured seven. The hearing continues, with heightened security expected in the coming sessions.