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Edo guber tribunal: APC witness confesses there was over-voting, INEC flaws
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By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
The Edo Guber Election Petition Tribunal on Wednesday suffered a major setback when a key witness for the All Progressives Congress (APC), Afuda Theophilus, admitted under cross-examination confessed that over-voting occurred in Esan North East Local Government Area—directly contradicting his sworn testimony.
The witness, who had been presented by the APC to defend the election’s integrity, initially asserted in his written witness statement that there were no incidents of over-voting.
However, when confronted with official polling unit results, he conceded that the total number of votes cast exceeded the number of accredited voters.
This shows there was over-voting?” Asue Ighodalo’s lead counsel, Abiodun Owonikoko (SAN), asked.
“Yes,” Theophilus replied, before attempting to offer an explanation.
His testimony became even more damaging when he was questioned about Form EC25B, the INEC-prescribed document for recording the serial numbers of sensitive election materials before voting. Referring to the INEC Manual for Election Officials, Owonikoko asked him to confirm that Form EC25B was the required document for documenting the serial numbers of result sheets and ballot papers. Theophilus agreed.
However, when presented with the actual Form EC25Bs used during the election, he was forced to acknowledge that they had not been filled in—lacking serial numbers, signatures, or any identifying details.
“There is no entry of serial numbers of result sheets or the BVAS machine. Can you confirm?” Owonikoko asked.
“I can’t find it…” Theophilus hesitantly responded.
When pressed further to confirm that the serial numbers were missing, he admitted, “Yes, they are not there.”
Reacting to the revelations, Ogbeide Ifaluyi-Isibor, speaking on behalf of the opposition, stated that the testimony exposed serious irregularities in INEC’s handling of the election and raised major doubts about the credibility of the results.
“Our legal team has argued that failure to complete Form EC25B alone constitutes non-compliance with electoral guidelines, invalidating results from affected polling units.
” This is the law—it is not my opinion. It is a strict liability issue, and once again, we are grateful to the APC for sending us such honest witnesses,” he remarked.
With its own witness inadvertently strengthening the opposition’s case, the APC’s defence appears increasingly fragile. The tribunal’s ruling on these revelations could have significant consequences for the outcome of the governorship election.
The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has retained the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR), the country’s benchmark interest rate, at 26.5 percent.
The decision was announced at the end of the 306th meeting of the MPC, held in Abuja on July 20 and 21, 2026.
All 11 members of the committee attended the two-day meeting, where they reviewed recent domestic and global economic developments before deciding to leave the benchmark lending rate unchanged.
The decision means the CBN has maintained its tight monetary policy stance amid efforts to sustain the moderation in inflation, stabilise the foreign exchange market and consolidate recent macroeconomic gains.
Details shortly…
Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has approved a new minimum monthly pension of ₦50,000 for retired civil servants in the state.Government
The new payment will begin next month and means no pensioner will receive less than the approved amount.
The governor announced the decision during his appearance on a live entertainment programme, Taba Kidi Taba Karatu, aired by the Adamawa Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) in Yola at the weekend.
Fintiri said it was unfair for some retired workers to survive on monthly pensions below ₦10,000 after spending many years serving the state.
He said the increase was introduced to give retired civil servants better living conditions and allow them to enjoy life after leaving public service.
He explained that his administration has continued to improve the welfare of workers by paying salaries on time, approving promotions, employing qualified workers and improving pension payments.
According to him, the new pension package is another step in fulfilling promises made to the people of Adamawa.
The governor also assured residents that all projects started by his administration would be completed before the end of his tenure.
He listed some of the projects to include the International Conference Hall, a modern shopping complex, the NYSC Orientation Camp, the Mother and Child Hospital, road projects, school facilities and other public investments across the state.
By Gloria Ikibah
Al-Ittihad forward, George Ilenikhena has won praise after presenting a brand new car to renowned cleric, Apostle Okechukwu Etiaka, in appreciation of the spiritual guidance, encouragement and support he received before rising to international football.
The thoughtful gesture was warmly received by members of the church and well-wishers, who described it as a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering those who played a role in one’s success.
The presentation was an emotional moment as Apostle Etiaka received the vehicle with gratitude, while family members, church members and supporters celebrated the footballer’s act of generosity and offered prayers for his continued success on and off the pitch.
Beyond the gift itself, Ilenikhena’s action has been widely viewed as an example of humility and gratitude, showing that success is not only measured by achievements on the field but also by the willingness to acknowledge those who helped make the journey possible.
The gesture has also drawn attention to the positive influence athletes can have within society. By recognising a mentor who stood by him before his breakthrough, the young footballer has reinforced the values of appreciation, loyalty and giving back to the community.
For many observers, the moment serves as a reminder that football is more than goals and trophies. It also provides a platform for players to inspire others through acts of kindness, encourage young people to value mentorship, and demonstrate that true success includes lifting others and honouring those who made the journey possible.
See Black Market Dollar To Naira Exchange Rate Today 21st July 2026
Breaking: CBN retains interest rate at 26.5%
Good news: State governor increases minimum pension for retirees
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