Echoes from Ondo Election Petition Tribunal

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, in the past week, made significant moves to strengthen his administration through key appointments while reaffirming his confidence in the mandate given to him by the people of Ondo State.
On Tuesday, the Governor approved the appointment of Engr. Olawoye Ayorinde Abiola, FNSE, as the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Infrastructure, Lands and Housing.
Abiola, a seasoned civil engineer with over 15 years of experience in construction, project management and consultancy, hails from Ondo in Ondo West Local Government area. His appointment aligns with the administration’s vision to drive sustainable infrastructural development and urban planning in the state.
A Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE) and the Nigerian Society of Civil Engineers (FNICE), Abiola is expected to contribute significantly to the state’s infrastructural growth. His appointment took immediate effect.
On Friday, Governor Aiyedatiwa attended the inaugural sitting of the Ondo State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal in Akure, where he reaffirmed his confidence in the credibility of the November 16, 2024 election.
The Governor described his historic victory across all 18 local government areas as a clear reflection of the people’s will.
“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,” he said.
The tribunal, presided over by Justice Nelson Ugubu, is reviewing petitions filed by three opposition parties—SDP, ADC and PDP. The PDP, as the main petitioner, has lined up 43 witnesses to present its claims of alleged electoral malpractice.
Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed interest in following the tribunal’s proceedings, noting that governance involves continuous learning.
“Even though I’m the Governor, I still want to hear what is going on in the judicial arm of government, particularly in this election petition. With legal professionals and competent justices on this panel, it is an exercise for me. I just want to witness it and be part of it. There’s nothing to worry about,” he stated.
Legal representatives from the petitioners and respondents made preliminary submissions, setting the stage for detailed hearings in the coming weeks.
The tribunal has adjourned proceedings to February 10, 2025.
As Governor Aiyedatiwa continues to strengthen governance and political stability in Ondo State, the week’s events underscore his administration’s focus on effective leadership, infrastructural advancement and legal accountability.