The Court of Appeal, Akure Judicial Division, on Thursday affirmed the victory of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State in the 16 November 2024 governorship election.
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The Ondo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal had on 4 June upheld the victory of Aiyedatiwa, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and dismissed the petitions challenging his win as “speculative.”
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the Allied People’s Movement (APM), and the Social Development Party (SDP) had appealed the tribunal’s decision, alleging that the lower court failed to properly analyse the evidence and exhibits presented.
The three-member panel, comprising Justices Nimpar Yargata, K.I. Amadi, and I.M. Sani, unanimously struck out the appeals, ruling that the appellants failed to substantiate their claims of non-compliance with the Electoral Act.
The court held that the petitioners could not provide credible evidence or witnesses to support their allegations of over-voting and widespread irregularities in various polling units, wards, and local government areas where the election was conducted.
As a result, the appellate court imposed a fine of ₦1.5 million against the petitioners.
Reacting to the judgment, Governor Aiyedatiwa described it as a welcome development and commended the appeal court justices for thoroughly reviewing the cases and delivering detailed and unanimous decisions.
“I give glory to Almighty God who orchestrated this journey from the beginning and used the good people of Ondo State,” he said.
He recalled that over 366,000 voters gave him and his party their mandate on the election day to continue governing the state as the seventh democratically elected governor.
“That mandate was validated by the tribunal and has now been reaffirmed by the appeal court.
“While some political parties tried to overturn the people’s decision through the backdoor, the judiciary has fulfilled its role by upholding the choice made by the majority of voters across the 18 local government areas of the state,” Aiyedatiwa stated.
He also expressed gratitude to his deputy, Olaide Adelami; his legal team; APC leaders and members; and extended appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for ensuring a level playing field for all parties.
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