Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has described the Federal High Court verdict barring him from recontesting the 2028 governorship election as an unnecessary distraction. Speaking in a live interview on Channels Television, Aiyedatiwa clarified that he has never declared interest in running for another term.
The governor said the public has been misled by social media narratives and stressed that there is currently no timetable for any governorship election in the state. “I have never at any time declared to anybody that I am going to contest an election,” he stated, noting that his focus remains on delivering on the fresh mandate he secured in November 2024.
Aiyedatiwa further explained that the court case was initiated by other individuals seeking clarification on his eligibility, not by him. He emphasized that the legal proceedings would not distract him from governance or fulfilling the promises made to the people of Ondo State.
He also dismissed allegations of pushing political opponents out of the All Progressives Congress APC, asserting that politics is about numbers and encouraging more people to join the party. Aiyedatiwa denied any rift with the Minister of Interior Hon Olubunmi Tunji Ojo and clarified that deaths during the APC congress were unrelated to party disputes.
Regarding the court judgment, the governor said he has not yet seen the full details and would consult his lawyers before taking any action. He reiterated that the constitution provides the framework for governance, and its interpretation lies with the judiciary.
Aiyedatiwa concluded that his focus is on governance and inclusivity, noting that he expanded party stakeholders in meetings from 10 to 60 per local government to ensure broader participation.
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