In a landmark decision delivered by Justice Tijjani Abubakar, the Supreme Court unanimously upheld the re-election of Governor Dapo Abiodun in Ogun State. The dismissal of the appeal filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Ladi Adebutu, solidified the apex court's stance, finding no grounds to nullify Governor Abiodun's victory as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate.
The ruling, echoing the earlier decision of the Court of Appeal on November 22, 2023, deemed the appeal by PDP and Adebutu as lacking merit. Justice Abubakar stated, "This appeal is unmeritorious, and it is accordingly dismissed."
Governor Abiodun, declared winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) with 276,298 votes, faced challenges from Adebutu, who alleged irregularities and non-compliance with the Electoral Act 2022. The Ogun State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal and the Court of Appeal had previously affirmed Abiodun's victory.
A split decision in the Court of Appeal resulted in a minority verdict by Justice Jane Inyang, directing INEC to conduct a fresh election in specific polling units within 90 days. Adebutu sought redress in the Supreme Court against the majority decision, while Governor Abiodun and INEC filed cross-appeals.
The apex court's validation of Governor Abiodun's win concludes a legal battle over the Ogun State election, affirming the earlier outcomes and reinforcing the integrity of the electoral process."
