The Court of Appeal sitting in Akure has affirmed the election of Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, dismissing the appeal filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and three other political parties for lack of merit.
In a unanimous judgment delivered by Justices Nimpar Yargata, K.I. Amadi, and I.M. Sani, the appellate court upheld the June 4, 2025 ruling of the Ondo State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal, which validated the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the November 16, 2024 governorship election.
The PDP, along with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Allied People’s Movement (APM), and the Social Democratic Party (SDP), had sought the nullification of the election, citing alleged irregularities and non-compliance with the Electoral Act.
However, the Appeal Court ruled that the appellants failed to present credible evidence to substantiate their claims.
The court held that the petitioners could not demonstrate how the alleged infractions affected the overall outcome of the election across polling units and local governments.
The justices also noted that the appellants effectively abandoned their cases by failing to call reliable witnesses during the tribunal’s proceedings.
Consequently, the court affirmed the tribunal’s judgment and awarded a cost of N1.5 million against the appellants.
Reacting to the ruling, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the judgment as a “welcome development,” expressing gratitude to the people of Ondo State for their continued support.
He also thanked the judiciary for its thoroughness, and appreciated his deputy, legal team, and members of the APC across the state.
Reporting by Isaac Afolabi