……….Ondo State people made their choice decisively – Gov Aiyedatiwa

By Precious Oluwole

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa has reaffirmed his trust in the integrity of the November 16, 2024, governorship election, emphasizing that the people of Ondo State made their choice decisively.

Speaking after attending the inaugural sitting of the Ondo State Election Petitions Tribunal in Akure on Friday, the governor described the election as historic, emphasizing that his victory across all 18 local government areas was a true reflection of the people’s will.

The governor said “The election was free, fair, and credible. The people of Ondo State made history by ensuring that, for the first time, a candidate won in all 18 local government areas. That alone speaks volumes about the trust and confidence they have in my leadership,”

The tribunal, presided over by Justice Nelson Ugubu, is set to hear petitions filed by three opposition parties—the Social Democratic Party (SDP), the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)—challenging Aiyedatiwa’s victory. The PDP, which emerged as the main petitioner, has lined up 43 witnesses to substantiate its claims of alleged electoral malpractices.

Governor Aiyedatiwa, however, dismissed the allegations, maintaining that the election was conducted in full compliance with the Electoral Act. He also expressed his interest in following the tribunal proceedings, noting that it was an opportunity to observe the judiciary at work.

“And, you know, learning is continuous. Even though I’m the governor, I still also want to hear what is going on in the judiciary arm of government, particularly in this election petition. Having the legal professionals and the very competent justices on this panel, it’s an exercise for me. I just want to witness it and be part of it. There’s nothing to worry about,” he stated.

During the sitting, the tribunal noted that a total of 149 witnesses would be called during the hearings. The breakdown of witnesses includes:
• 43 witnesses from the PDP (Petitioner)
• 19 witnesses from INEC (Respondent 1)
• 32 witnesses from Respondent 2
• 20 witnesses from Respondent 3
• 35 witnesses from APC (Respondent 4)

Legal representatives from both the petitioners and respondents engaged in preliminary submissions, setting the stage for what is expected to be an intense legal battle over the coming weeks.

As the tribunal proceedings unfold, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed confidence that the judiciary would uphold fairness and justice. “I respect the legal process, and I am confident that, in the end, the truth will prevail. The people of Ondo State have spoken, and their voices will not be silenced,” he added.

The tribunal has adjourned to February 10th for further proceedings, with expectations that witness testimonies and evidentiary submissions will begin in earnest.