Drama Unfolds: Ondo Tribunal Poised To Rule On Ajayi’s Challenge To Aiyedatiwa’s Victory

The Ondo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, seated in Akure, is set to deliver its judgment today on the petition filed by Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate Agboola Ajayi, who is challenging the victory of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in the November 16, 2024 governorship election. The three-member tribunal panel is chaired by Justice Benson Ogubu.

Governor Aiyedatiwa, representing the All Progressives Congress (APC), was declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after securing 366,781 votes and winning in all 18 local government areas of Ondo State.

The APC hailed his victory as a clear endorsement from the people across the state. However, opposition parties have disputed the results, alleging irregularities throughout the electoral process.

Ajayi, a former deputy governor, rejected the outcome and, together with the PDP, filed the petition at the tribunal, citing widespread electoral malpractice. The party is demanding the annulment of the election results and a fresh poll.

Ajayi’s petition is among several brought before the tribunal. Other parties—including the Social Democratic Party (SDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM), and African Alliance (AA)—have also lodged separate petitions questioning the credibility of the election.

All petitioners have raised concerns about voter suppression, alleged result manipulation, and failure to comply with electoral laws and guidelines.