Toba Owojaiye reporting
Abuja , Nigeria
The Supreme Court has affirmed Dapo Abiodun’s triumph in the Ogun State Governorship Election.
The ruling, delivered by Justice Tijjani Abubakar, saw the dismissal of the appeal filed by Ladi Adebutu, the People Democratic Party’s (PDP) gubernatorial candidate.
Truth Live News gathered that the Justice Abubakar, leading a five-member panel, stated unequivocally, “In the end, this appeal is unmeritorious and deserves to be dismissed. It is hereby dismissed.”
This decision solidifies Abiodun’s position as the legitimate winner of the March 2023 election, where he secured 276,298 votes, defeating Adebutu, who amassed 262,382 votes. Biyi Otegbeye of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) trailed with 94,754 votes.
Controversy surrounded the election as the PDP and Adebutu alleged irregularities, non-compliance with the Electoral Act, and corrupt practices by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Their claims included the disenfranchisement of over 40,000 voters due to disruptions by thugs in more than 99 polling units.
This legal battle extended beyond the initial election results. The tribunal dismissed Adebutu’s petition in September 2023, confirming Abiodun’s victory.
In November 2023, the appeal court, with a split decision, upheld Abiodun’s election, although Judge Jane Inyang’s minority ruling proposed a fresh election by INEC within 90 days.
With the Supreme Court’s recent decision, Abiodun’s victory stands validated, marking a definitive conclusion to the electoral disputes.