By Dayo Johnson, Akure

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its governorship candidate in the 2024 Ondo State election, Chief Agboola Ajayi, have rejected the verdict of the Ondo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, vowing to challenge the decision at the Court of Appeal.

The three-member Tribunal, chaired by Justice Benson Ogubu, had dismissed all petitions filed against the victory of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in the November 16, 2024 governorship election. The Tribunal declared the petitions filed by the Action Alliance (AA), Allied People’s Movement (APM), Social Democratic Party (SDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and the PDP as “worthless and unmeritorious.”

In a statement issued in Akure, Chief Ajayi expressed dissatisfaction with the Tribunal’s ruling delivered on June 4, 2025. He claimed the judgment contained “glaring inconsistencies” in the handling of critical evidence and exhibits presented during the proceedings.

“We believe the Tribunal did not accord proper analysis to the details of the evidence before it. While we respect the judiciary, we strongly disagree with the outcome and will be appealing this decision,” he stated.

Ajayi emphasized that although the ruling favored the All Progressives Congress (APC), the PDP remained resolute in its commitment to justice and the rule of law.

“We are aware of prevailing concerns about the integrity of the justice system in Nigeria, especially in politically sensitive cases. Yet, we remain resolute. Electoral laws are not symbolic—they must be obeyed. Our democracy deserves better,” he said.

He also expressed concern that APC representatives arrived at the court on the day of the judgment in a celebratory mood, suggesting possible foreknowledge of the verdict—a development he described as troubling but not discouraging.

Calling on PDP supporters across the state and the country to remain hopeful, Ajayi assured them that the struggle for justice was not over.

“We will leave no stone unturned in seeking redress. Justice shall reign, both in our state and across our nation,” he concluded.

Chief Ajayi added that the PDP’s decision to appeal underscores its unwavering commitment to the democratic process, the rule of law, and the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system—even as the nation prepares to celebrate Democracy Day on June 12.