It is based on this conviction, and our belief that the results were manipulated, that we pursued legal redress. Regrettably, and most unexpectedly, the verdicts at every stage of the judicial process went against us
Former Governor Godwin Obaseki has responded to the Supreme Court’s final ruling on the Edo State governorship election dispute, expressing disappointment with the outcome while reaffirming his faith in democratic ideals and the resolve of the people.
The Supreme Court of Nigeria, on Thursday, July 10, 2025, delivered its much-anticipated judgment on the legal challenge stemming from the September 21, 2024, governorship election in Edo State.
In a unanimous decision, a five-member panel of justices led by Justice Mohammed Garba dismissed the appeal filed by Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), for lack of merit.
Justice Garba, in delivering the lead judgment, held that the appellants—Dr. Ighodalo and the PDP—failed to produce sufficient and credible evidence to substantiate their claims of electoral malpractice or irregularities.
He further noted that the appellants were unable to demonstrate that the lower courts—the Election Petition Tribunal and the Court of Appeal, which had earlier upheld Senator Monday Okpebholo’s victory—erred in their findings.
“The appeal is hereby dismissed for lacking in merit,” Justice Garba ruled. “Accordingly, the decisions of the tribunal and the Court of Appeal are affirmed.”
In an official statement following the verdict, ex Governor Obaseki extended gratitude to the people of Edo State and Nigerians at large for their continued support throughout the electoral process. He emphasized that despite the judicial outcome, he and his party remain convinced that the PDP won the election.
“I am profoundly grateful to the good people of Edo State and Nigerians for their overwhelming support for the victory, which we firmly believe our party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), its candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, and his running mate, Osarodion Ogie, secured in the Edo State Governorship Election held on September 21, 2024,” he stated.
Obaseki explained that this deep conviction prompted the party to pursue justice through the legal system—beginning with the tribunal, progressing to the Court of Appeal, and ultimately reaching the Supreme Court.
However, he expressed dismay that all three courts ruled in favour of the opposing party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo.
“It is based on this conviction, and our belief that the results were manipulated, that we pursued legal redress. Regrettably, and most unexpectedly, the verdicts at every stage of the judicial process went against us,” he said.
While he reaffirmed his party’s strong disagreement with the Supreme Court’s decision, Obaseki underscored that, as law-abiding citizens, they are obligated to respect the rule of law.
“Although we strongly disagree with the decision of the Supreme Court, we are bound by their verdict as adherents to constitutional governance and the rule of law,” he added.
However, Obaseki issued a stark warning about the long-term implications of what he described as a deeply flawed electoral process that has now received judicial endorsement.
“We must raise an alarm that the brazen manner in which the Edo election was manipulated, along with the judicial validation it has now received, presents a dangerous threat to the future of Nigeria’s democracy,” he cautioned.
Despite the setback, Obaseki called on citizens to remain hopeful, placing trust in divine justice. He expressed confidence that truth and justice would ultimately prevail, even if not through the courts.
“As people of faith, we entrust our cause into God’s hands. Only He knows the perfect time and way to bring justice and redemption to our people,” he said.
He concluded by encouraging citizens to stay resilient and hopeful in the face of adversity.
“I urge our people not to lose heart. Let us remain steadfast in our efforts to redeem and rebuild our dear fatherland,” he urged.
