Court Speaks, Aiyedatiwa Reacts: ‘Time To Move Past This Political Drama

Lucky Aiyedatiwa has reacted to a ruling by the Federal High Court of Nigeria that bars him from seeking another term in office, describing the decision as premature and a distraction from his responsibilities as governor.

The court, presided over by Toyin Bolaji Adegoke, ruled that the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria limits governors to a maximum of eight years in office.

The lawsuit was filed by Kin Egbuwalo, who asked the court to interpret Section 137(3) of the constitution regarding Aiyedatiwa’s eligibility to seek re-election.

In its judgment, the court sided with the plaintiff and issued an order preventing the governor from contesting another term.

Other defendants listed in the case included Aiyedatiwa’s deputy, Olayide Adelami, the All Progressives Congress, the Independent National Electoral Commission, and the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation.

During an appearance on Politics Today on Channels Television, the governor said discussions about the 2028 off-cycle governorship election were unnecessary at this time.

He pointed out that he had only recently secured a new mandate after winning the November 16, 2024 governorship election, adding that his current focus is on governance.

Aiyedatiwa explained that he has not yet examined how the constitutional eight-year limit could affect his political future, stressing that his priority remains implementing the policies and development projects promised to the people of Ondo State.

According to him, it is far too early to debate the issue.

He said questions about his eligibility could be addressed closer to the next election cycle, possibly around 2027 or when the electoral timetable for the 2028 off-cycle poll is released.

The governor added that after recently going through an election and surviving an impeachment process, the ongoing legal challenge has become an unnecessary distraction.

Despite the controversy, he maintained that the All Progressives Congress remains the dominant political force in Ondo State and emphasized that politics ultimately revolves around numbers.