The Court of Appeal sitting in Akure, Ondo State, has dismissed the appeal filed by the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) governorship candidate, Olugbenga Edema, challenging the victory of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, in the November 16, 2024, gubernatorial election.
Edema had earlier approached the Federal High Court seeking to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to disqualify Aiyedatiwa and Adelami from the election over issues surrounding their nomination by the All Progressives Congress (APC). He based his suit on the interpretation of Section 15 of the Third Schedule to the 1999 Constitution (as amended). However, the Federal High Court dismissed his claims.
Dissatisfied with the High Court’s ruling, Edema proceeded to the Court of Appeal to challenge the judgment. Delivering the verdict, Justice Oyebisi Omoleye upheld the earlier decision, affirming that the appeal lacked merit and constituted an abuse of court process. All issues raised by the appellant were resolved in favour of the respondents.
The three-man panel of the appellate court not only dismissed the appeal but also awarded a fine of ₦1 million each to the respondents. The judgment further solidified the legitimacy of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s electoral victory and dismissed any claims of procedural irregularities in his nomination.
Reacting to the judgment, the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo (SAN), commended the courage and thoroughness of the judges. He called on all parties to accept the will of the people and focus on developing Ondo State. According to Ajulo, continued litigation would only delay progress and unity, stating that it was time for all stakeholders to work together for the state’s growth.
