By Adesakin Adefemi
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has described a Federal High Court ruling barring him from recontesting the governorship election as an unnecessary distraction.
Aiyedatiwa stated that he has never declared interest in contesting another governorship election and is focused on delivering on the promises he made to the people of Ondo State.
Speaking during a live interview on Channels Television, Aiyedatiwa clarified that the public has been misled by various narratives circulating on social media, stressing that he has not at any time indicated an intention to run in another election.
He emphasized that there is currently no timetable for any governorship election in the state, and he has taken no step suggesting such an ambition.
Aiyedatiwa explained that the case was initiated by other individuals seeking clarification on his eligibility, and he did not approach the court to seek eligibility to contest any election.
He maintained that the legal battle would not distract him from focusing on governance and delivering on the promises he made to the people of Ondo State.
The governor also denied allegations that he was pushing political opponents out of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, stating that politics thrives on numbers and he is instead encouraging more people to join the party.
He dismissed suggestions of a rift with the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, stating that both of them remain members of the same political family.
Aiyedatiwa clarified reports that his lawyers had already filed an appeal, explaining that the appeal related to earlier preliminary objections during the proceedings and not the judgement delivered by the court.
He stated that he has not yet seen the details of the ruling and would consult his lawyers before deciding on the next step.
The governor noted that the judicial system provides several levels of adjudication, including the High Court, the Court of Appeal, and the Supreme Court of Nigeria. He emphasized that the Supreme Court remains the final authority on constitutional matters.
Aiyedatiwa reiterated that the constitution remains the guiding framework for governance and that its interpretation rests with the judiciary.
He stated that he is aware of constitutional provisions regarding tenure for deputies who complete the tenure of their principals but insisted he has not begun to consider any future contest.
The governor explained that he has expanded the number of stakeholders participating in party meetings since assuming office, increasing the number of attendees from 10 to 60 per local government.
He described this as a move to ensure greater inclusivity and dismissed claims that people are being driven away from the party.
Aiyedatiwa’s response to the court ruling has been seen as a calm and measured approach, with many observers praising his focus on governance despite the legal challenge.
The outcome of the appeal is awaited, and it remains to be seen how it will impact the political landscape in Ondo State.
The governor’s commitment to delivering on his promises to the people of Ondo State remains unwavering, and he is expected to continue working towards achieving his goals despite the distractions.
