Chief Agboola Ajayi, the governorship candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the November 16 election in Ondo State, has filed a petition at the election tribunal to challenge the victory of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
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In his first public statement since losing the election, Ajayi described the poll as “a miscarriage of democracy orchestrated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).” He stated that after carefully analyzing the outcome of the election, he and his party decided to challenge the results at the tribunal, as they believed the outcome did not reflect the will of the people.
Ajayi explained, “Since the election, our party has refrained from making public comments to allow time for a comprehensive review of the events that transpired on election day. After careful analysis, we have come to express our gratitude to the people of Ondo State for their confidence in us and the maturity they displayed during the elections, despite provocations.”
He rejected accusations that voters in Ondo sold their votes or were compromised, emphasizing that the people’s will was not for sale. Ajayi stated that the dissatisfaction with the election results was widespread, reflecting public discontent with what he termed a “miscarriage of democracy” orchestrated by INEC.
Despite previous warnings and legal actions to ensure INEC’s neutrality, Ajayi said the commission failed to act impartially, and the declared results did not reflect the aspirations of the people of Ondo State.
“The declaration of Aiyedatiwa as the winner by INEC was met with widespread dissatisfaction, as evident in the mood that followed. Our party has taken the lawful step of filing a petition at the electoral tribunal,” he said. Ajayi assured that the party remains committed to pursuing justice, though he refrained from discussing the details of the case.
Ajayi also expressed confidence in the judiciary, despite concerns about its integrity, stating, “We remain optimistic that the tribunal will fairly adjudicate our case. The judiciary remains a critical institution in preserving democracy, and we urge it to rise to this challenge.”
In his call for electoral reform, Ajayi urged the National Assembly to amend the Electoral Act to ensure a transparent and tamper-proof electoral process. He proposed the adoption of electronic voting to curb electoral malpractices and enhance the credibility and reliability of Nigeria’s elections.
He argued that Nigeria is ready for an electronic voting system, which he believes would save the country from the persistent electoral issues it faces. “The use of BVAS, as currently implemented, has been exploited for manipulation, and we urge its re-evaluation ahead of future elections,” he added.
Ajayi concluded by thanking the people of Ondo State and the leaders of his party for their support, stating, “Your support has been invaluable. Ondo State deserves leaders chosen freely and fairly by the people. We are determined to restore the integrity of our democracy and ensure the people’s mandate is upheld.”
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