The Peoples Democratic Party’s candidate in the November 16, 2024 Ondo State governorship election, Agboola Ajayi, has formally withdrawn his appeal before the Supreme Court challenging Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s victory.
Ajayi, who previously served as the state’s deputy governor, had contested the election outcome shortly after the Independent National Electoral Commission declared Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress as winner with 366,781 votes, while Ajayi secured 117,845 votes.
Following the declaration, Ajayi petitioned the Election Petition Tribunal, but his case was dismissed. He also lost at the Court of Appeal and subsequently approached the Supreme Court in pursuit of justice.
However, in a letter dated September 16, 2025, and addressed to the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court in Abuja, Ajayi announced his decision to discontinue the case. The letter, which was made available on Wednesday, indicated that his decision followed consultations with stakeholders.
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The document, titled ‘RE: SC/CV/757/2025 – Mr Ajayi Alfred Agboola & Anor V. Independent National Electoral Commission & 3ORS’, read in part:
“I am the ‘Appellant’ in the above appeal, and I write to inform you that I am aware of the appeal that has been filed on my behalf concerning the recent gubernatorial election in Ondo State.
“As the gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, I have engaged in thoughtful discussions with my family, party members, associates, and legal advisors. After careful deliberation, we have reached a consensus that the appeal should be withdrawn, and I’m signing this letter to do so.
“Having served as the former Deputy Governor and as a representative of my constituents at the national level, my foremost commitment is to the principles of good governance and the promotion of peaceful coexistence in Ondo State and across Nigeria.
“In this spirit, I extend my heartfelt wishes to His Excellency Lucky Orimisan Alyedatiwa as he leads our state, and I remain dedicated to contributing positively to the State and National development.
“Thank you for your understanding and attention to this matter. I trust that my position will be respectfully acknowledged.”
Ajayi did not disclose specific reasons for abandoning the case but emphasized that the decision was reached after wide consultations.
