Ondo PDP gov candidate Ajayi rejects tribunal verdict, vows appeal

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Ondo PDP Governorship candidate Agboola Ajayi

The Peoples Democratic Party and its 2024 Ondo State governorship candidate, Chief Agboola Ajayi, have rejected the judgment of the state’s Election Petition Tribunal, declaring their intention to appeal the decision at the Court of Appeal.

The three-member tribunal, led by Justice Benson Ogubu, had on June 4, 2025, dismissed all petitions challenging Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s victory in the November 16, 2024 election.

The tribunal described petitions from the PDP, Action Alliance, Allied Peoples Movement, Social Democratic Party, and African Democratic Congress as “worthless and unmeritorious.”

In a strongly-worded statement issued in Akure, Ajayi expressed dissatisfaction with the verdict, citing “glaring inconsistencies” in the tribunal’s handling of evidence.

“We believe the Tribunal did not accord proper analysis to the details of the evidence before it. While we respect the judiciary, we strongly disagree with the outcome and will be appealing this decision,” Ajayi stated.

The PDP flagbearer maintained that despite the ruling favoring the All Progressives Congress, his party remained committed to pursuing justice through legal means.

“We are aware of prevailing concerns about the integrity of the justice system in Nigeria, especially in politically sensitive cases. Yet, we remain resolute. Electoral laws are not symbolic—they must be obeyed. Our democracy deserves better,” he asserted.

Ajayi raised concerns about the conduct of APC members on judgment day, noting their celebratory mood before the verdict was delivered. “This development is troubling but not discouraging,” he remarked, suggesting possible foreknowledge of the outcome.

Addressing PDP supporters, Ajayi urged calm and perseverance: “We will leave no stone unturned in seeking redress. Justice shall reign, both in our state and across our nation.”

The decision to appeal comes as Nigeria prepares to mark Democracy Day on June 12, with Ajayi emphasizing that the PDP’s action demonstrates its commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and electoral integrity.

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