By Jefferson Ibiwale, Benin

The Edo State Election Petition Tribunal on Thursday upheld the victory of Peter Akpatason, the All Progressives Congress, APC, candidate in the last election into the Federal House of Representatives in Akoko-Edo Federal Constituency.

The tribunal, led by Justice A. R. Ozoemena, dismissed the petition filed Bankole-Balogun of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, on the ground that it was not filed in line with the Electoral Act.

“As it seems there is no petition before the Tribunal since there was no attempt by the PDP or its agents to sign on behalf of the party. The petition lacks merit and therefore struck out in its entirety,” Justice Ozoemena declared.

Ken Mozia, counsel to Akpatason and the APC, said it was a judgement that gave victory to democracy, adding, “The panel were meticulous in their judgment.”

Candidate of the PDP in the election, Bankole-Balogun has, however, said he is considering appealing the judgement of the tribunal.