September 17, 2025
By Tobi Akinnubi
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the November 2024 Ondo State election, Agboola Alfred Ajayi, has withdrawn his appeal at the Supreme Court challenging the victory of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The appeal, registered as SC/CV/757/2025 – Ajayi & Anor vs. INEC & Others, sought to upturn the result of the governorship election in which Aiyedatiwa was declared winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The APC candidate secured victory in all 18 local government areas of the state.
In a statement, Ondo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo (SAN), commended Ajayi’s decision, describing it as a patriotic and statesmanlike step that would foster peace and political stability in the state.
According to Ajulo, the withdrawal demonstrates Ajayi’s commitment to democratic values and respect for the will of the people as expressed at the polls. He noted that the move would also allow the state to focus on governance rather than prolonged litigation.
“The decision of Mr. Agboola Ajayi to discontinue his appeal before the Supreme Court is not only commendable but also historic. It shows maturity, courage, and true statesmanship. By this action, he has put Ondo State above personal ambition and contributed to strengthening our democracy,” Ajulo stated.
Political observers believe the withdrawal effectively closes the chapter on post-election disputes from the 2024 governorship election, firmly cementing Governor Aiyedatiwa’s mandate. The governor had earlier urged opposition parties to join hands with his administration to deliver development across the state.
With Ajayi’s decision, attention is now expected to shift fully to governance, with stakeholders calling on all political actors to support efforts aimed at ensuring peace, stability, and progress in Ondo State.
