The recent remarks by Mr. John Mayaki, former Chief Press Secretary to Governor Godwin Obaseki, concerning the Petition filed by Dr. Asuerinme Ighodalo, the People's Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the September 21, 2024, Edo State Gubernatorial Election, have sparked outrage. Barrister Kelvin Joseph Ehisuan, a prominent legal practitioner and a Principal Partner with Sovereign Attorneys Law Firm has strongly criticized Mayaki’s unauthorized comments, calling them an affront to the integrity of the judicial process.
Mayaki had confidently declared that "no mandate was stolen" in the election and dismissed the possibility of any recovery through legal proceedings. This assertion came despite the matter being under the jurisdiction of the Tribunal, a situation that Barr. Ehisuan has deemed highly inappropriate and ill-advised.
"Mayaki lacks the authority to make such declarations," Barr. Ehisuan remarked. "I have had a one-on-one encounter with him, and I respect his intelligence. However, for him to pre-empt the Tribunal's decision on a case that is still sub-judice is unacceptable. The court has the final say, and we must allow the process to run its course."
The petition filed by Dr. Ighodalo challenges the outcome of the gubernatorial election, alleging widespread irregularities and asserting that the true will of the people was subverted. Dr. Ighodalo, a seasoned politician and former Commissioner for Health, has garnered significant support for his quest to reclaim what he describes as a stolen mandate.
Barr. Ehisuan emphasized the importance of respecting the judiciary, noting that such premature comments could undermine public trust in the legal system. "This is not just about one election; it’s about the credibility of our democracy. Statements like Mayaki’s, which seek to influence public perception, are damaging and unwarranted," he added.
As the legal battle intensifies, the Tribunal is set to hear compelling evidence from both sides, with many stakeholders eagerly anticipating the outcome. While Mayaki’s comments have fueled political debates, Barr. Ehisuan has called on all parties to exercise restraint and allow the judiciary to perform its constitutional duty.
Observers argue that this case could set a precedent for future electoral disputes in Edo State and beyond, making the Tribunal’s judgment even more significant. For now, the final verdict lies in the hands of the court, and the public waits with bated breath to see whether justice will be served.
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