Navigation

© Zeal News Africa

Ondo Governor Victorious! Apex Court Upholds Win as Petition Withdrawn.

Published 2 hours ago4 minute read
Pelumi Ilesanmi
Pelumi Ilesanmi
Ondo Governor Victorious! Apex Court Upholds Win as Petition Withdrawn.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State has declared its recent governorship election victory at the Supreme Court as a definitive affirmation of the public's will. The party, through its state publicity secretary Alex Kalejaye, praised the roles of the judiciary, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and security agencies during the legal proceedings. Kalejaye conveyed the congratulations of the state chapter Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, to Governor Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, Deputy Governor Dr. Olade Adelamin, party chieftains, and the citizens of Ondo State for this significant triumph. The Supreme Court on Wednesday dismissed the challenges brought by three political parties, specifically mentioning the People's Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Hon. Agboola Ajayi Alfred, who had earlier withdrawn his case before the apex court. The other two parties involved were the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the Allied People's Movement (APM). Following the judgment, the APC appealed to the defeated parties to set aside their electoral grievances and actively support the Aiyedatiwa-led government's initiatives aimed at comprehensive reconstruction and economic revitalization across the state.

Further reinforcing the state's political stability, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo, lauded Agboola Ajayi's decision to withdraw his appeal from the Supreme Court. In a statement released on Wednesday, the Attorney General characterized the former Deputy Governor's action as both patriotic and statesmanlike. Ajulo confirmed that his office had noted reports of Ajayi's communication to the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, through which he formally withdrew appeal No. SC/CV/757/2025 – MR. AJAYI ALFRED AGBOOLA & ANOR V. INDEPENDENT NATIONAL ELECTORAL COMMISSION & 3 ORS. He underscored that Ajayi’s decision exemplifies a rare combination of statesmanship, maturity, and unwavering dedication to peace and democratic stability. Ajulo elaborated that this move demonstrates Ajayi's resolve to prioritize the overarching interests of Ondo State above specific partisan considerations, which, he believes, will enhance the legitimacy of democratic institutions and foster political harmony within the state.

Ajulo stated: “I acknowledge this patriotic decision and wish to place on record our deep appreciation for the statesmanship, maturity, and unwavering commitment to peace and democratic stability demonstrated by Hon. Agboola Ajayi. His resolve to put the greater interest of Ondo State above partisan considerations is a rare attribute that underscores his enduring devotion to the principles of good governance, harmony, and collective progress.” The Attorney General also highlighted that this withdrawal definitively validates the “overwhelming victory” of Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa in the November 16, 2024 Governorship election in Ondo State. Notably, Governor Aiyedatiwa achieved a historic feat by becoming the first candidate from any political party to secure victory across all 18 Local Government Areas of the State. This particular election judicial dispute also marks a significant precedent in the state's history, being the first not to be contested to its absolute conclusion by aggrieved candidates and political parties. Ajulo expressed confidence that this precedent would have a positive historical impact on democracy in Ondo State.

Recalling his earlier advocacy, the Attorney General mentioned that he had previously urged Hon. Ajayi to conclude what he termed “endless litigation,” asserting that the recent withdrawal of the appeal vindicates his earlier counsel. He also extended gratitude to the leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), specifically mentioning Chief Eddy Olafeso, for their support in the reconciliatory process that culminated in Ajayi's decision. On behalf of the Ondo State government and its people, Ajulo conveyed “profound appreciation” to Ajayi for this courageous step, viewing it as a crucial contribution to consolidating peace and unity across political divides. Looking forward, the Attorney General revealed plans for his office to collaborate with the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Enlightenment and other relevant officials to establish a statewide public engagement platform. This initiative aims to provide a forum for dialogue and reconciliation among aggrieved politicians and citizens, thereby fostering collective development now that election-related disputes have been amicably resolved.

Loading...
Loading...
Loading...

You may also like...