Court Halts EDSIEC from Conducting Edo LG By-Elections in 59 Wards

The Edo State High Court in Benin City has halted the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) and the state government from conducting local government by-elections in 59 wards. The court order, granted by Justice Mary Itsueli, came after a motion filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) seeking to challenge EDSIEC's decision to fill councillorship positions in affected wards.

The PDP argued that the current councillors' tenure remains valid until September 2026, making any attempt to declare the seats vacant unlawful. The court restrained EDSIEC from proceeding with the elections scheduled for September 20 across 15 local government areas in the state, ensuring legal clarity on the matter.