Ondo Governor Rejects Court Ruling on Second-Term Bid, Calls It Premature

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has dismissed a Federal High Court ruling barring him from seeking a second term in office, describing it as “premature and unnecessary.”

The judgment, delivered on Thursday by a Federal High Court in Akure, sought to prevent Aiyedatiwa from contesting another governorship election in 2028.

Speaking on Friday during a live interview on Channels Television, the governor clarified that he has never indicated any intention to run for a fresh term.

“I would like to start with just clarifying a bit of sanity as regards this matter,” he said. “Let me establish some truth so that the general public can have a better understanding of what has been and what is now.”

The governor explained that many narratives circulating on social media had misrepresented the situation. He emphasised that there is currently no timetable for another governorship election in the state.

“The truth is that I have never at any time declared to anybody that I am going to contest an election,” Aiyedatiwa said. “It is not time for any governorship election in this state. 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.”

Aiyedatiwa stated that he did not institute the case to seek clarification on his eligibility, noting that the litigation was filed by other individuals seeking judicial interpretation. He added that the court ruling would not distract him from his governance duties.

“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.

The governor also highlighted his commitment to fulfilling the mandate he received from 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.”

Regarding a possible appeal of the verdict, Aiyedatiwa said he has yet to see the details of the ruling and will consult with his lawyers before taking any next steps.

“The judgement delivered by the Federal High Court in Akure is a judgement of the court. My lawyers will look at it and advise,” he added, noting that the judicial process allows for further interpretation at the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court.

He also suggested that the case could ultimately serve as a reference point for constitutional interpretation on tenure limits for deputies who complete the tenure of their principals.