Agboola Ajayi, PDP Reject Tribunal Verdict, Head to Appeal Court

The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the last governorship election in Ondo State, His Excellency Agboola Alfred Ajayi, has rejected the judgment of the Ondo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal and vowed to challenge the ruling at the Court of Appeal.

The Tribunal, which delivered its judgment on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, upheld the election of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC). However, Ajayi and the PDP have expressed strong dissatisfaction with the outcome.

In a statement personally signed by the former deputy governor, Ajayi said a detailed review of the judgment revealed several lapses and what he described as a failure by the Tribunal to properly evaluate the evidence and exhibits tendered before it.

“We feel disappointed that we didn't get justice at that level,” Ajayi said. “But we remain undeterred and undiscouraged in our search to ensure that justice is not only served in this matter but also to ensure that honesty begins to prevail in our election process.”

He emphasised the PDP’s decision to pursue the matter further at the appellate court, reaffirming the party's commitment to legal redress despite challenges currently facing the Nigerian judiciary.

“This we do in spite of the obvious challenges that the judiciary faces in Nigeria at this particular period, including prevailing views that suggest the unportability of justice in our nation,” the statement read.

Ajayi also criticised what he termed the celebratory posture of the APC on the day of the Tribunal judgment, describing it as suggestive of prior knowledge of the verdict.

“They came to court in a celebratory mood, indicative of a prior knowledge of the verdict. But justice shall yet reign in our state and nation,” he added.

He called on PDP members and supporters across the state to remain calm, focused, and resilient in the face of the Tribunal’s decision, stressing that electoral laws must be respected to preserve the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy.

“Our democracy remains a mere mockery if the law is not upheld. Laws, particularly electoral laws, are not mere decorations. They must be obeyed at all costs,” he said.

Ajayi reaffirmed his commitment to the pursuit of justice, stating that the struggle continues as Nigeria prepares to mark Democracy Day on June 12.

The PDP’s appeal is expected to be filed in the coming days.

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