Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has declared that the recent Supreme Court affirmation of his victory in the November 16, 2024, governorship election is not his personal triumph but belongs to the people of Ondo State.
Speaking over the weekend, the governor emphasized that his election and legal battles culminating in the apex court’s ruling reflected the collective will and mandate of the Ondo electorate.
The Supreme Court had dismissed appeals challenging his candidacy and election, citing procedural lapses and the lack of standing of petitioners.
Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude to the judiciary, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and his legal team for their roles in upholding the people's mandate.
He called on all political parties and stakeholders to accept the verdict and join hands in supporting his administration's efforts to develop Ondo State.
The ruling party, All Progressives Congress (APC), also hailed the Supreme Court’s decision as the final seal of legitimacy for Governor Aiyedatiwa’s mandate.
The governor won decisively, securing victory in all 18 local government areas and defeating his nearest rival, Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The upholding of Aiyedatiwa's election ended months of litigation, solidifying his position as the legitimate governor dedicated to service and progress in Ondo State.