The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State has called on opposition parties to rally behind Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa following the Supreme Court’s dismissal of petitions against his election victory.
The party said the end of the legal tussle should pave the way for collective efforts in advancing the governor’s reforms, which it described as crucial to economic recovery and development across key sectors.
The appeal came after Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Agboola Ajayi, formally withdrew his petition before the apex court challenging Aiyedatiwa’s triumph in the November 16, 2024 governorship poll.
Ajayi, who was the governor’s main rival among 16 contestants, wrote to the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court to announce his decision.
“After careful deliberation, we have reached a consensus that the appeal should be withdrawn, and I hereby so do.
Having served as former Deputy Governor and legislator, my foremost commitment is to good governance and peaceful coexistence in Ondo State and Nigeria,” Ajayi said in a statement on Wednesday.
Reacting, the APC commended Ajayi’s decision, describing it as not just a legal closure but an endorsement of the people’s mandate for Aiyedatiwa.
Party spokesperson, Alex Kalejaye, also lauded the judiciary, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies for their roles during the litigation process.
The state chairman of the APC, Ade Adetimehin, congratulated Aiyedatiwa, his deputy, Olade Adelami, and the people of the state, describing the victory as “well-deserved.”
On Wednesday, the Supreme Court struck out petitions filed by the PDP, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the Allied People’s Movement (APM) against Aiyedatiwa’s election.