Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has expressed strong confidence in his victory at the Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal following the November 16, 2024 election. Speaking to journalists after the tribunal’s inaugural sitting, Aiyedatiwa reiterated his belief in the election’s legitimacy, highlighting the historic nature of his win. He emphasized that the election was free, fair, and credible, noting his victory across all 18 local government areas as a testament to the people’s trust and confidence in his leadership. He secured 366,781 votes, defeating the PDP, which garnered 117,845 votes, and other parties with significantly lower tallies.
Despite Aiyedatiwa’s victory, the PDP, SDP, and ADC have filed petitions challenging the election results, alleging that they do not reflect the will of the electorate and questioning the APC candidates’ qualifications. PDP candidate Agboola Ajayi, through his counsel, specifically filed a petition against the conduct of the election. The three-member tribunal, led by Justice Benson Ogubu, commenced its sittings at the State High Court in Akure, over three months after the election. During the pre-trial conference, the parties agreed to call a total of 149 witnesses, with the PDP calling 43, INEC 19, Aiyedatiwa 32, the APC 20, and Adelami 35.
Justice Ogubu assured all parties of a fair hearing, emphasizing adherence to the constitution and advising counsel against preempting the tribunal’s decisions or engaging with the press until the final ruling. The tribunal has set February 10 as the deadline for submitting applications, preliminary objections, and replies on points of law. Aiyedatiwa explained his presence at the tribunal, stating it was not out of fear but as an opportunity to learn. He described the election as peaceful, credible, and transparent, and expressed his desire to learn about the judiciary’s proceedings, particularly from the panel of justices. He reiterated his confidence in his victory, stating, “There is nothing to worry about.”
