Supreme Court Dismisses Appeals as PDP, SDP Withdraw Cases Against Aiyedatiwa

The Supreme Court on Wednesday dismissed the final set of appeals challenging the election of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, following the withdrawal of suits by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Social Democratic Party (SDP), and other opposition groups.   A five-member panel led by Justice Inyang Okoro struck out the cases after counsels to the parties formally applied to discontinue their challenges. This decision affirms earlier rulings of the tribunal and Court of Appeal, which upheld Aiyedatiwa’s victory in the November 16, 2024 governorship election. PDP’s candidate, Agboola Ajayi, through his lawyer, informed the court of his decision to withdraw, explaining that the move followed consultations within his party. He extended best wishes to Aiyedatiwa and restated his commitment to the development of Ondo State. The SDP also withdrew its case, while the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) and other smaller parties took similar steps, bringing the legal disputes to an end. Reacting, Ondo State Attorney-General, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, praised Ajayi’s withdrawal as “patriotic,” saying it would help stabilize the state’s political climate. Leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) welcomed the verdict, urging opposition parties to work with government for the progress of the state. Legal experts say the apex court’s ruling finally shuts the door on any further litigation over the election and cements Aiyedatiwa’s mandate. With the judicial chapter closed, political observers expect the governor to now focus fully on governance and delivering on his promises to the people.