Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa praised the Election Petition Tribunal’s ruling on Wednesday that affirmed his victory in the November 16, 2024, governorship race, calling on opposition figures to join hands in developing Ondo State.
The three-member tribunal, led by Justice Benson Ogbu, dismissed petitions filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Agboola Ajayi, for lack of merit.
The court also rejected challenges from Action Alliance (AA) and Abdullahi Olowokere; Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Bamidele Akingboye; Allied Peoples Movement (APM) and Kolawole Ogunfeyimi; and African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Adeyemi Nejo
Addressing reporters shortly after the judgment, Aiyedatiwa said, “Some political parties thought that they can steal the mandate through the back door, but today, the judiciary has confirmed the decision of the majority of indigenes and residents of Ondo State. So, I am delighted and happy; I, myself, my deputy and the chairman of our party, we are grateful to God.”
The governor urged opposition leaders to contribute their ideas to the state’s development, saying, “I extend the hand of fellowship to our opponents. Their input will help move Ondo forward.”
With the tribunal’s decision now final, Aiyedatiwa will continue his administration’s projects without the cloud of legal challenges. His administration has prioritized road rehabilitation, healthcare improvements, and boosting agricultural value chains.
