Politics
Aiyedatiwa dismisses court ruling on 2028 election as ‘distraction’
The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has dismissed a recent court ruling reportedly barring him from contesting a future governorship election, describing the judgement as an “unnecessary distraction.”
Speaking during a live interview on Channels Television, the governor said he had never declared interest in seeking re-election, stressing that discussions around the 2028 governorship race were premature.
The governor said public debate around the case had been fuelled by misconceptions circulating on social media.
“I would like to start with just clarifying a bit of sanity as regards to this matter. Let me establish some truth so that the general public can have a better understanding of what has been and what is now,” he said.
“A lot has been said on social media and there are a lot of misconceptions and opinions trying to distort the truth.”
Why it matters
The controversy follows a ruling by the Federal High Court in Akure concerning Aiyedatiwa’s eligibility to contest another governorship election.
The case centres on constitutional debates over whether a deputy governor who completes the tenure of a deceased governor can still run for two additional terms.
Aiyedatiwa first assumed office after the death of former governor Rotimi Akeredolu and later won the governorship election held on November 16, 2024.
The ruling has sparked wider legal and political discussions about term limits and constitutional interpretation in Nigeria’s democratic system.
“I never declared interest in another election”
Aiyedatiwa insisted he had not begun any process toward a new electoral bid.
“But the truth is that I have never at any time declared to anybody that I am going to contest an election. I have said this about a year ago.”
“It is not time for any governorship election in this state. There is no timetable. There is no sign of any election.”
“I have not expressed interest at any time that I am going to run for the office of the governor again because it is not yet time.”
The governor also clarified that he did not initiate the court case, saying it was filed by other individuals seeking interpretation of constitutional provisions.
Focus on governance
Despite the legal debate, Aiyedatiwa said the development would not distract him from governing the state.
“I don’t feel any form of distraction. I feel good and I will continue doing my work for the good people of Ondo State.”
“I want to fulfil the promises that I made during my campaign and ensure that I deliver.”
He added that his current focus remains on the mandate he secured in the 2024 governorship election.
“I had an election. I completed the tenure of my late principal and I contested the election which I won on November 16 2024.”
“It is still fresh. I have never thought about any other election other than delivering on the fresh mandate that has been given to me.”
Constitutional debate over tenure
The governor acknowledged that the constitution contains provisions regarding tenure for deputies who assume office after their principal’s death.
However, he said he had not begun considering the implications for a future political contest.
“You have to take things step by step even though I am aware of the constitutional provisions that say a deputy who completes the tenure of his principal can only continue one more time.”
“I also know that the law talks about a Nigerian having the right to contest for the same position a maximum of two times which is eight years.”
“Those provisions are there but I have not even gone into that thinking because the election is still fresh.”
Legal experts say the case could eventually set an important constitutional precedent if it reaches the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
Denial of rift within APC
Aiyedatiwa also rejected claims that he was pushing political rivals out of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State.
“It is not possible because politics is a game of numbers. Rather I want more people to join our party, the APC.”
“Some people may have different interests but the party is so big that you cannot drive anybody away.”
He also denied any political rift with the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
“The young man you mentioned, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, I don’t have any issue with him.”
“If you ask him, he will tell you he does not have any issue with me.”
“Politics is laden with interest and people have different interests, so sometimes you see push and pull.”
Stakeholder expansion in Ondo APC
The governor said he had actually expanded participation within party structures since assuming office.
According to him, stakeholder meetings previously had only 10 representatives from each local government.
“When I came on board as governor, I inherited a list of 10 members from each local government for stakeholders’ meetings.”
“I expanded it to 20 per local government and later increased it to 30.”
“Today we have 60 stakeholders per local government attending meetings every quarter.”
That brings the total number of participants to 1,080 members, he said.
What happens next?
Aiyedatiwa said he had not yet studied the court judgement in detail.
He said his lawyers would review the ruling before deciding whether to challenge it.
“The judgement delivered by the Federal High Court in Akure is a judgement of the court. I have not seen the details. I only heard about it.”
“My lawyers will look at it and if there is room for seeking further interpretation they will advise.”
He added that the judicial system allows cases to move through multiple levels of appeal, including the Court of Appeal of Nigeria and the Supreme Court.
“This is the first time this kind of case is happening in the constitution of Nigeria.”
“We must look at it carefully so that there will be an authority on the matter for the future.”
Ondo State Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has called for a more accessible and people-focused justice system, as he announced plans to renovate courts in Okitipupa.
He made the remarks on Wednesday at the grand finale of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Law Week for the Okitipupa branch, held in Akure.
The governor said Nigeria’s justice system must reflect the needs of ordinary citizens and not appear distant or delayed.
“The cry of the ordinary citizen is simple but powerful: let justice be real, let it be fair, and let it be felt,” he said.
He added that the law should serve not just as a set of rules, but as “the conscience of society” that ensures fairness and equity.
Courts renovation and reforms
Aiyedatiwa confirmed that courts in Okitipupa would be renovated, even as he reaffirmed his administration’s support for judicial independence.
He said while the judiciary has full autonomy, the executive arm would step in to oversee infrastructure upgrades.
The governor also highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening judicial institutions and improving public trust in the legal system.
Why it matters
Legal experts say delays, limited access, and infrastructure gaps have long affected Nigeria’s justice system.
By investing in court facilities and reforms, authorities hope to improve efficiency and ensure equal access to justice.
Aiyedatiwa urged lawyers to balance legal reasoning with compassion, noting that every case involves real human consequences.
Call to legal professionals
The governor emphasised the role of lawyers as defenders of justice and urged them to maintain integrity.
He also advised young lawyers to build their careers on discipline and ethical conduct, warning against shortcuts.
“Behind every case are real lives and consequences,” he said.
Judiciary and democracy
Former NBA President Wole Olanipekun warned that overburdening the courts could threaten Nigeria’s democracy.
Speaking as chairman of the event, he described the judiciary as the cornerstone of democratic governance.
He cautioned against the growing trend of resolving nearly all disputes, especially electoral matters, through the courts.
He said this trend “poses a serious threat to the nation’s democratic stability.”
Industry and institutional perspectives
Dr Abdul-Kabir Olajide Ajana, chairman of the Law Week planning committee, called for greater support for the NBA Okitipupa branch.
He highlighted the branch’s wide coverage across Ondo South, making it the largest in the state by geography.
The event also drew key stakeholders, including Olusegun Odusola and traditional ruler Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.
Recognition and next steps
Governor Aiyedatiwa received a Special Recognition Award at the event, which he described as a call to greater responsibility.
He urged stakeholders to uphold justice and work collectively toward national development.
“Our progress depends on our willingness to stand against injustice and uphold what is right,” he said.
Politics
Olusola Oke at 70: Ondo Aspirant Hails Legal Luminary’s Legacy of Mentorship and Political Influence
Aspirant for the Ondo State House of Assembly, Ilaje Constituency 1, Ilawole Taiwo Samuel, has described Olusola Oke as a “towering statesman” whose legacy of mentorship and political leadership continues to shape governance in Ondo State and Nigeria.
Why it matters
The tribute underscores the role of political mentorship in Nigeria’s democratic development, especially at a time when calls for accountability and youth inclusion in governance are growing.
Observers say figures like Oke have played a critical role in bridging generational gaps in politics and sustaining institutional knowledge within local constituencies.
A legacy of mentorship and influence
In a statement marking Oke’s 70th birthday, Samuel said the senior advocate’s journey from the legal profession into politics reflects “service, integrity and unwavering commitment to national development.”
“Your journey from the legal profession to the echelons of power stands as a shining example of service, integrity and unwavering commitment to national development,” he said.
He added that Oke has mentored “countless political leaders,” particularly in Ilaje Constituency 1, providing guidance, endorsements and strategic support.
Shaping Ilaje’s political landscape
Samuel credited Oke with helping to nurture political maturity in Ilaje by mediating conflicts, opening opportunities for young people and fostering unity.
“You have opened doors for the youth, mediated internal conflicts and consistently stood as a bridge between the people and power,” he said.
Political analysts note that such influence often operates behind the scenes but can significantly shape electoral outcomes and governance culture at the grassroots level.
Calls for accountable leadership
The aspirant also linked Oke’s legacy to his own political ambition, saying it has inspired his commitment to accountability and results-driven governance.
“In a time when many seek attention, you continue to demand accountability and results,” he said.
He added that Oke’s example shows that leadership is defined not only by position but by impact on people’s lives.
Wider recognition
Samuel said Oke’s influence extends beyond Ondo State, with recognition across Nigeria and internationally among legal and political communities.
“At 70, you remain an icon we can proudly rally around… your presence commands respect, unity and a sense of collective purpose,” he stated.
What’s next
As Ondo State prepares for future political contests, analysts say the continued involvement of experienced figures like Oke could shape candidate selection, party dynamics and voter engagement.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on the Federal Government to act after the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, made what it described as a “reckless and violent” remark about a television journalist.
What happened
In a statement issued on 5 April 2026, the NUJ said it was “profoundly shocked and outraged” by a comment attributed to Mr Wike concerning Seun Okinbaloye of Channels Television.
The minister reportedly said:
“If there’s anyway to break the screen, I would have shot him.”
The NUJ described the statement as a direct attempt to intimidate the press and undermine democratic principles in Nigeria.
‘Dangerous signal’ for press freedom
The union said it had initially held back from responding, expecting the minister to apologise or retract the remark.
However, it said the absence of any apology “strongly suggests that the statement was not a momentary lapse but rather a deliberate and intentional act designed to intimidate.”
“This incendiary comment from a high-ranking government official is not only deeply disturbing but also creates a climate of fear for journalists striving to uphold their professional duties,” the NUJ said.
According to the union, such comments risk sending a message that critical reporting could attract hostility or even threats of violence.
Why it matters
Press freedom advocates say statements perceived as threatening can have a chilling effect on journalism, especially in countries where reporters already face political pressure.
The NUJ warned that the safety of journalists is essential to a functioning democracy, adding that any attempt to silence the media must be resisted.
NUJ demands and government response
The union is demanding an “immediate and unreserved apology” from Mr Wike.
It also called on the Federal Government to publicly condemn the comment and take steps to ensure journalists can work without fear.
“It is imperative that the government takes concrete steps to ensure that journalists can perform their essential role without fear of reprisal or harm,” the statement said.
As of the time of publication, there has been no official response from the minister or the federal authorities.
Calls for solidarity
The NUJ urged media organisations, civil society groups and democracy advocates to stand together against what it described as an attack on press freedom.
“The safety and security of journalists are paramount to a healthy democracy,” the union added.
What’s next
Observers say the government’s response will be closely watched as a test of its commitment to media freedom and democratic accountability.
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