Agboola Ajayi, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the November 16 Ondo State governorship election, has filed a petition with the Ondo State Election Petition Tribunal challenging the victory of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Aiyedatiwa the winner with 366,781 votes, defeating Ajayi, who secured 117,845 votes.
Speaking at the Ondo State PDP secretariat, Ajayi confirmed that his legal team had submitted the petition, although he withheld specific details of the case. He expressed dissatisfaction with the election’s outcome, alleging:
- Vote Buying and Intimidation: Ajayi claimed these tactics influenced the election results.
- Misuse of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS): He called for amendments to the Electoral Act to address concerns over the system’s implementation.
“The result does not represent the desires of the people of Ondo State. We need leaders chosen through free and fair elections,” Ajayi stated, expressing confidence in the tribunal’s ability to deliver justice.
Ajayi had earlier filed a lawsuit questioning the qualifications of Governor Aiyedatiwa and his deputy. However, the Federal High Court in Akure dismissed the case, citing procedural flaws and lack of standing.
The PDP candidate reiterated his commitment to ensuring that future elections in Ondo State reflect the true will of the people, emphasizing the need for reforms in the electoral process.
As the tribunal prepares to hear Ajayi’s petition, all eyes are on the proceedings to determine whether the allegations of electoral malpractice hold weight.
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