 candidate in the November 16 Ondo governorship election, Agboola Ajayi, has taken Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to the election petition tribunal, contesting the declared results){kind=link}
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the November 16 Ondo governorship election, Agboola Ajayi, has taken Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to the election petition tribunal, contesting the declared results.
At a press conference held in Akure, the Ondo State capital, on Monday, Ajayi stated that the outcome of the election did not represent the will of the people. He expressed confidence that the tribunal would deliver justice in response to his petition.
“Since the election, our party has refrained from public commentary to allow a comprehensive review of the events that occurred on election day,” Ajayi said. “After careful analysis, we wish to express gratitude to the people of Ondo State for their confidence in us and the maturity they displayed, despite various provocations.”
Ajayi dismissed allegations that voters were compromised during the election, asserting, “The will of the people is not for sale. The sadness and disappointment seen after the election reflect their dissatisfaction with the results, which we believe were manipulated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).”
He criticized INEC for its lack of impartiality, noting that earlier warnings and legal actions to ensure the commission’s neutrality were ignored.
Ajayi further claimed that the declaration of Aiyedatiwa as the winner sparked widespread discontent across the state. “The election results, as announced, do not align with the aspirations of the people. Our party has filed a petition at the electoral tribunal, and while we won’t discuss the case in detail, we remain steadfast in our pursuit of justice. The people of Ondo are determined to see democracy upheld.”
The PDP candidate also emphasized his faith in the judiciary, describing it as a critical institution for preserving democracy. “While there are concerns about the judiciary’s integrity, we believe it will rise to the occasion and adjudicate our case fairly. We trust the tribunal to uphold justice.”
Ajayi called on the National Assembly to amend the Electoral Act to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral system, advocating for the introduction of electronic voting to ensure transparency and curb malpractice.
“The adoption of electronic voting will address the challenges that have plagued our electoral process. It is transparent, credible, and reliable. Nigeria is ready for this innovation, and we urge the National Assembly to take swift action to amend the law.”
He also criticized the current implementation of the BVAS system, claiming it had been exploited for electoral manipulation, and urged its re-evaluation ahead of future polls.
Ajayi thanked the people of Ondo State and PDP leaders at all levels for their unwavering support. “Your backing has been invaluable. Ondo State deserves leaders chosen freely and fairly by its people. We are committed to restoring the integrity of our democracy and ensuring the people’s mandate is respected.”