The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the November 2024 Ondo State governorship election, Chief Agboola Ajayi has formally withdrawn his Supreme Court appeal challenging the victory of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Ajayi, a former Deputy Governor, said the decision followed extensive consultations with his family, political associates, and legal advisers.
In a letter to the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, he noted that pursuing the appeal further would not serve the broader interests of peace and good governance in Ondo State.
He stated: “After careful deliberation, we have reached a consensus that the appeal should be withdrawn. My foremost commitment is to good governance and peaceful coexistence in Ondo State and across Nigeria. In this spirit, I extend my heartfelt wishes to His Excellency Lucky Aiyedatiwa as he leads our state.”
Nigerian NewsDirect reports that the withdrawal brings an end to months of legal disputes over the 2024 election, reshaping the opposition’s political landscape in the state.
The APC in Ondo State welcomed Ajayi’s decision, describing Aiyedatiwa’s victory as an endorsement of the people’s mandate.
In a statement signed by Alex Kalejaye, the state party Publicity Secretary, on behalf of Chairman Engr. Ade Adetimehin, the APC congratulated Aiyedatiwa, his deputy Dr. Olaide Adelami, and the people of Ondo.
Adetimehin urged opposition parties, including the PDP, the Social Democratic Party (SDP), and the Allied People’s Movement (APM), all of whose candidates have withdrawn petitions, to support Aiyedatiwa’s administration in rebuilding the state and boosting its economy.