The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the November 16, 2024 Ondo State governorship election, Mr Agboola Ajayi, has formally withdrawn his appeal before the Supreme Court challenging the victory of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Ajayi, a former deputy governor of the state, had polled 117,845 votes in the election, losing to Aiyedatiwa who secured 366,781 votes.
He had initially approached the Election Petition Tribunal to nullify the result, but his petition was dismissed. Subsequent appeals at both the Tribunal and the Court of Appeal also failed to overturn the governor’s victory.
Undeterred, Ajayi proceeded to the Supreme Court. However, in a letter dated September 16, 2025, and addressed to the Chief Registrar of the apex court, he announced his decision to discontinue the case.
The letter was made available to journalists on Wednesday.
While Ajayi did not cite a specific reason for withdrawing the appeal, he explained that the decision followed wide consultations with his family, legal team, party stakeholders, and associates.
“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After careful deliberation, we have reached a consensus that the appeal should be withdrawn,” the letter read in part.
He further noted that his foremost commitment remained good governance and peaceful coexistence in Ondo State.
He also extended best wishes to Governor Aiyedatiwa, pledging to contribute positively to the development of the state and Nigeria at large.
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