In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court of Nigeria has dismissed the appeal filed by Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), challenging the candidacy of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State. The decision solidifies Aiyedatiwa’s position as the APC’s gubernatorial candidate ahead of the upcoming elections.
Justice Lawal Garba, delivering the lead judgment, stated that Ajayi lacked the legal standing to challenge the internal affairs of another political party. The court also ruled that the case was statute-barred, as it was filed outside the 14-day legal window required after the cause of action arose on May 20, 2024.
The Supreme Court upheld the rulings of the lower courts, describing Ajayi’s appeal as unsustainable. Additionally, the court ordered Ajayi to pay ₦2 million in costs to each of the four respondents involved in the case.
Ajayi had raised allegations of irregularities in the name change of Aiyedatiwa’s running mate, Olayide Adelami, but the court found no legal grounds to disqualify the APC candidate. This ruling marks a significant victory for Aiyedatiwa and the APC, clearing the path for their campaign in Ondo State.
