The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal experienced a significant delay after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declined to present witnesses in response to issued subpoenas, according to court proceedings on February 9, 2025.
The tribunal, which is considering challenges to the outcome of the 2024 gubernatorial election, heard that the petitioner’s legal team completed its cross-examination on several key witnesses before the commission’s absence. INEC officials cited procedural reasons for the decision but did not produce representatives during the session.
Lawyers for the petitioner argued the failure to call witnesses undermines the evidence-based review process, while counsel for the commission maintained the tribunal’s timetable should accommodate legal strategy adjustments.
Tribunal members adjourned proceedings to a later date, emphasizing that a full review of submissions remains critical to ensuring a lawful resolution.
Editor’s note: This article was updated for clarity and additional context.
