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By Sunday Ani
Ondo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, has commended the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Agboola Ajayi, for withdrawing his appeal pending before the Supreme Court.
A statement by Dr Ajulo described the former Ajayi’s decision to withdraw the petition as patriotic and statesmanlike.
He said his office had taken notice of Ajayi’s letter dated September 16, and addressed to the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, in which he formally withdrew the appeal No. SC/CV/757/2025 – MR. Ajayi Alfred Agboola & Anor V. Independent National Electoral Commission & 3 Ors.
He noted that Ajayi’s decision was a rare attribute of statesmanship, maturity and unwavering commitment to peace and democratic stability.
According to him, the move demonstrates Ajayi’s resolve to place the greater interest of Ondo State above partisan considerations, which he noted would further strengthen the legitimacy of democratic institutions and foster political harmony in the state. “I acknowledge this patriotic decision and wish to place on record our deep appreciation for the statesmanship, maturity and unwavering commitment to peace and democratic stability demonstrated by Agboola Ajayi.
“His resolve to put the greater interest of Ondo State above partisan considerations is a rare attribute that underscores his enduring devotion to the principles of good governance, harmony and collective progress.
“It is noteworthy, that this decision has further validated the overwhelming victory of Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa in the November 16, 2024 governorship election in Ondo State, where he emerged as the first ever candidate of a political party, to secure victory in all the 18 local government areas of the state.
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“This also marks the first election judicial dispute in the history of our state, that was not fought to the very end, by aggrieved candidates and political parties.
“No doubt, this is a precedent that will historically impact positively on democracy in our state,” he said.
The Attorney General recalled that he had previously urged Ajayi to end what he described as endless litigation, adding that the withdrawal of the appeal now vindicates his earlier call.
He also expressed gratitude to the PDP leaders, singling out Chief Eddy Olafeso as a point of contact, for supporting the reconciliatory process that culminated in Ajayi’s decision.
Ajulo further stressed that on behalf of the government and the people of Ondo State, he appreciated Ajayi for the bold step, describing it as one that would contribute to consolidating peace and unity across political divides.
Looking ahead, he revealed that his office would collaborate with the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Enlightenment and other relevant officials to initiate a statewide public engagement platform.
The initiative, he said, would provide an avenue for aggrieved politicians and citizens to dialogue, reconcile and contribute towards the overall development of the state, now that election-related disputes have been put to rest.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to building an inclusive society, where leaders, regardless of political affiliation, could contribute meaningfully to governance and development.
