Court Dismisses Ondo Governor Aiyedatiwa's Appeal

The Abuja Court of Appeal has dismissed the appeal filed by Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa concerning his eligibility to contest in the 2028 governorship election. The unanimous judgment from a three-member panel, led by Justice Uchechukwu Onyemenam, ruled that Aiyedatiwa's appeal lacked merit.

The court awarded N2 million in costs against him. The case arose from a suit initiated by Akindel Egbuwalo in July 2025, seeking clarification on whether Aiyedatiwa had taken an oath of office twice, which would affect his eligibility.

Aiyedatiwa first assumed office on December 27, 2024, following the death of former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu and was re-inaugurated on February 24, 2025. The appeal court affirmed a previous ruling by the Federal High Court, which allowed Egbuwalo to amend his suit.

Aiyedatiwa's defense, presented by Deputy Governor Olayid Adelami, argued that the suit was premature and that Aiyedatiwa had not declared his intent to run. The appeal was dismissed, confirming the lower court's decision.