By Adesakin Adefemi
The Court of Appeal in Abuja has dismissed Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s appeal, challenging his eligibility to contest the 2028 governorship election in Ondo State.
The three-member panel unanimously ruled that the appeal lacked merit and awarded ₦2 million in costs against the governor.
The dispute centers on Aiyedatiwa’s eligibility to run for a second full term, given that he was sworn in twice – first to complete the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s term and again after winning the 2024 governorship election.
Akindele Egbuwalo, a plaintiff, had filed a suit seeking interpretation of Section 137(3) of the 1999 Constitution regarding Aiyedatiwa’s eligibility.
Justice Uchechukwu Onyemenam, who delivered the lead judgment, stated that Aiyedatiwa failed to prove that the trial judge’s decision caused him injustice or denied him a fair hearing.
The appellate court affirmed the Federal High Court’s ruling, which granted Egbuwalo’s application to amend his originating summons.
The governor’s eligibility has sparked debate, with some arguing that his first term was a completion of Akeredolu’s term, while others claim it’s a full term. The court’s decision has raised questions about Aiyedatiwa’s future plans.
Aiyedatiwa was first sworn in as governor in December 2024 and again in February 2025 after winning the governorship election. He has yet to indicate interest in running for re-election in 2028.
The Court of Appeal’s ruling is seen as a significant setback for Aiyedatiwa, who had been expected to seek re-election. The decision has sparked speculation about his next move.
The appellate court also dismissed an application filed by Aiyedatiwa seeking to set aside an order made on January 27, 2026, which stayed further proceedings in the suit before the Federal High Court in Akure.
Aiyedatiwa’s next option is to appeal to the Supreme Court. The outcome of the case will determine his eligibility to contest the 2028 governorship election.
The decision has sent shockwaves through Ondo State’s political circles, with many awaiting the governor’s next move.
