ONDO GUBER POLL: COURT DISMISSES AGBOOLA AJAYI’S CASE AGAINST GOV. AIYEDATIWA, DEPUTY

The Federal High Court in Akure has dismissed a suit filed by Mr. Agboola Ajayi, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the November 16 Ondo governorship election, challenging the eligibility of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and his deputy, Olayide Adelami, to contest under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Presiding over the case, Justice Toyin Bolaji Adegoke ruled that the plaintiff lacked the locus standi to initiate the suit, further declaring it statute-barred for being filed outside the 14-day window prescribed by the Electoral Act. The court also dismissed the suit on procedural grounds, as it was initiated through originating summons rather than a writ of summons—a requirement when facts are disputed.

The plaintiff’s case centered on alleged inconsistencies in the academic credentials of Mr. Adelami. Documents presented highlighted variations in names, such as “Adelami Owolabi Jackson” on a 1974 West African Examination Council (WAEC) certificate and “Adelami Olaide Owolabi” on a 1982 Ambrose Alli University degree. Counsel to the PDP argued that these discrepancies warranted the disqualification of both Mr. Adelami and Governor Aiyedatiwa.

However, Dr. Remi Olatubora, SAN, counsel to Mr. Adelami, dismissed the claims as baseless, explaining that the variations were merely differences in name arrangement and bore no implication of fraudulent intent. This position was corroborated by Tayo Oyetibo, SAN, representing Governor Aiyedatiwa, and senior advocates representing the APC and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In her judgment, Justice Adegoke held that the plaintiff’s grievances were devoid of merit and lacked substantive grounds to disqualify the APC candidates. She emphasized the importance of adhering to procedural requirements and statutory timelines in the adjudication of electoral disputes.

Reacting to the ruling, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed relief and commended the judiciary for its impartiality. Describing the suit as a needless distraction, the Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering impactful governance and fulfilling campaign promises to the people of Ondo State.

The ruling has brought finality to a contentious pre-election issue, allowing the Governor to focus fully on the mandate entrusted to him by the electorate. It also highlights the judiciary’s critical role in safeguarding electoral integrity and upholding the principles of justice and fairness in Nigeria’s democratic process.