— APC Says It’s an Endorsement of People’s Mandate
By Dayo Johnson, Akure
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the November 2024 election in Ondo State, Chief Agboola Ajayi, has formally withdrawn his appeal pending before the Supreme Court challenging the victory of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Ajayi, a former Deputy Governor of the state, said his decision followed wide consultations with his family, political associates, and legal advisers.
In a letter to the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Ajayi explained that while he was aware of the pending appeal, pursuing it further would not serve the broader interest of peace and good governance.
He stressed that the unity and development of Ondo State remained his priority, regardless of political differences.
“After careful deliberation, we have reached a consensus that the appeal should be withdrawn. My foremost commitment is to good governance and peaceful coexistence in Ondo State and across Nigeria. In this spirit, I extend my heartfelt wishes to His Excellency Lucky Aiyedatiwa as he leads our state,” Ajayi stated.
His decision brings to an end months of legal tussle and reshapes the dynamics of the state’s opposition politics.
Meanwhile, the APC in Ondo has welcomed the development, describing Aiyedatiwa’s victory as an endorsement of the people’s mandate.
In a statement signed by the state Publicity Secretary, Alex Kalejaye, on behalf of the Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, the party congratulated Aiyedatiwa, his deputy, Dr. Olaide Adelami, and the people of the state.
Adetimehin also commended the judiciary, INEC, and security agencies, as well as the PDP, the Social Democratic Party (SDP), and the Allied People’s Movement (APM), whose candidates have all withdrawn their petitions.
He urged the opposition parties to put the election behind them and support Aiyedatiwa’s administration in rebuilding the state and boosting its economy.
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