The Court of Appeal in Abuja has upheld the Federal High Court’s November 24, 2025 ruling in Akure, dismissing Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State’s appeal challenging his qualification to contest the upcoming gubernatorial election
In a unanimous verdict, a three-member appellate panel ruled that the Federal High Court acted correctly in allowing plaintiff Akindele Egbuwalo to amend his originating summons.
Justice Uchechukwu Onyemenam, delivering the lead judgment, stated that Aiyedatiwa failed to show that the trial court’s decision caused any injustice or violated his right to a fair hearing. Consequently, the appeal was dismissed for lack of merit, with the governor ordered to pay ₦2 million in costs.
Earlier, the Court of Appeal had also rejected Aiyedatiwa’s application seeking to overturn a January 27, 2026 order that stayed further proceedings in the Federal High Court suit. The appellate court clarified that the stay did not invalidate the trial court’s judgment but was a proper exercise of its jurisdiction to protect the integrity of its process.
The judiciary noted that at the time the stay was issued, Aiyedatiwa’s appeal had already been filed, relevant records were compiled, and legal briefs submitted, emphasizing that the appellate court acted appropriately to preserve its proceedings and prevent potential nullification.
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