Appeal Court upholds governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s election victory in Ondo State

The Federal Court of Appeal sitting in Akure has affirmed the election of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, effectively dismissing all legal challenges brought against his victory in the last governorship election.

The ruling, delivered on Thursday, marks a major legal triumph for Aiyedatiwa, who contested the election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). It also reinforces the earlier judgment by the Ondo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, which had validated his win.

The appeal was filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Agboola Ajayi, who contested the outcome of the poll, citing alleged irregularities and non-compliance with the Electoral Act.

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However, the appellate court held that the petition lacked merit, ruling that the election was conducted in substantial compliance with electoral laws and regulations.

The judges unanimously agreed that the petitioners failed to provide sufficient evidence to substantiate their claims.

This decision brings an end to the legal dispute surrounding Aiyedatiwa’s emergence as governor, providing legal clarity and reinforcing the legitimacy of his mandate.

Aiyedatiwa, who assumed office after winning the tightly contested election, has since begun implementing his administration’s agenda, focusing on infrastructure, security, and economic development in the state.

Thursday’s ruling is expected to strengthen his position as the duly elected governor and may foster greater political stability in the state.