The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has declared that any by‑election conducted by the State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) to replace elected councillors is illegal and contemptuous of a court order. This stance follows a mandate from the Edo State House of Assembly directing EDSIEC to hold by‑elections for councillorship seats allegedly vacated across the 192 wards in 18 local government areas.
A court order issued on July 22, 2025, by Justice A.A. Adewemimo of the National Industrial Court, Benin Division, directed that the status quo be maintained in a suit filed by the sacked EDSIEC Chairman, Justice James Uyi Oyomire (rtd.), and six other appointed members. The claimants, whose five‑year tenure expires in March 2027, were removed without due process and are seeking redress and nearly ₦500 million in unpaid entitlements.
According to the PDP, the EDSIEC, as currently constituted, is subject to the ongoing court case, rendering any election it conducts null and void. Party Publicity Secretary Chris Nehikhare emphasized that the court order expressly forbids any actions that could undermine the final judgment, including the inauguration of a new commission or the issuance of an electoral timetable.
The PDP warned that proceeding with the by‑election would not only contempt the court but also subvert the Constitution and due process. The party called on Governor Monday Okpebholo, the Attorney‑General, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, and other officials to retrace their steps and respect the judicial process.
This development underscores the continuing political tensions in Edo State and highlights the need for adherence to legal and constitutional frameworks in elections and governance. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the state government and the judiciary will respond to the PDP’s concerns and the court’s directives, with potential implications for the state’s political stability and democratic processes.
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