The judgment, which reinforces the duo's legitimacy, also closes another chapter in the legal hurdles aimed at invalidating their election under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
This latest ruling follows an earlier decision by the Federal High Court in Akure, where Justice Toyin Bolaji Adegoke dismissed a similar suit filed by Ajayi. The High Court had ruled that the PDP candidate lacked the locus standi to challenge the eligibility of Governor Aiyedatiwa and Dr. Adelami. It further declared the case statute-barred for being filed outside the 14-day window stipulated by the Electoral Act. Procedural errors, including the use of originating summons rather than a writ of summons in a dispute involving contested facts, also led to the dismissal.
Ajayi's case centered on alleged discrepancies in Dr. Adelami’s academic credentials, particularly variations in the arrangement of names on his documents. However, these claims were effectively countered by Dr. Remi Olatubora, SAN, counsel to Dr. Adelami, who argued that the discrepancies were inconsequential and lacked any evidence of fraud. Tayo Oyetibo, SAN, representing Governor Aiyedatiwa, along with senior advocates for the APC and INEC, supported this position, emphasizing that the claims were baseless.
The Federal High Court’s dismissal set the stage for today’s judgment at the Court of Appeal, where Ajayi’s appeal was struck down. The appellate court reaffirmed the sanctity of Aiyedatiwa and Adelami’s election, dismissing the PDP's arguments as lacking merit and substance.
Reacting to the ruling, stakeholders within the ruling APC commended the judiciary for its impartiality and professionalism. The ruling not only validates the will of the Ondo electorate but also solidifies the foundation for continued governance in the state.
_20241123_210056_0000.jpg)
0 Comments