Court Ruling: I Haven’t Shown Interest In Fresh Election — Aiyedatiwa

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State says he has not expressed interest in contesting another governorship election, following a Federal High Court ruling that barred him from seeking a fresh term in 2028.

A Federal High Court in Akure ruled on Thursday that Aiyedatiwa is not eligible to contest the 2028 governorship election.

But reacting to the judgment on Friday during an interview on Channels Television, the governor said he had never indicated interest in another election, describing public reactions to the ruling as largely based on misinformation.

“I would like to start with just clarifying a bit of sanity as regards to this matter,” Aiyedatiwa said.

“Let me establish some truth so that the general public can have a better understanding of what has been and what is now.”

Aiyedatiwa maintained that he had not declared any intention to seek another term, noting that discussions about a future election were premature.

“The truth is that I have never at any time declared to anybody that I am going to contest an election,” he said.

“It is not time for any governorship election in this state. There is no timetable. There is no sign of any election and I have not expressed interest at any time that I am going to run for the office of the governor again because it is not yet time.”

The governor also clarified that he did not institute the court case seeking interpretation of his eligibility to contest another election.

According to him, the suit was filed by other individuals, adding that the development would not distract him from governance.

“I don’t feel any form of distraction. I feel good and I will continue doing my work for the good people of Ondo state,” he said.

Aiyedatiwa said his focus remains on delivering on the mandate given to him by voters in the November 16, 2024 governorship election.

“I completed the tenure of my late principal, and I contested the election, which I won on November 16, 2024. It is still fresh,” he said.

“I have never thought about any other election other than delivering on the fresh mandate that has been given to me.”

The governor noted that he is aware of constitutional provisions regarding tenure limits for deputies who assume office following the death of their principals, but said he had not begun considering another contest.

On whether he would challenge the court ruling, Aiyedatiwa said he had yet to review the full details of the judgment and would consult his lawyers before deciding on the next step.

“The judgement delivered by the Federal High Court in Akure is a judgement of the court. I have not seen the details. My lawyers will look at it and advise,” he said.

He added that the judicial process allows for further interpretation at the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court, noting that the case could eventually serve as a reference point for constitutional interpretation.(Daily trust)