In a unanimous decision led by Justice Tijjani Abubakar, the Supreme Court on Friday upheld the re-election of Governor Dapo Abiodun in Ogun State.
The apex court dismissed an appeal filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Ladi Adebutu, challenging the outcome of the March 18, 2023 governorship poll.
The court found no reason to nullify Governor Abiodun’s election victory, maintaining the earlier verdict of the Court of Appeal from November 22, 2023, which also dismissed the PDP’s case.
Justice Abubakar stated, “This appeal is unmeritorious, and it is accordingly dismissed.”
Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared Abiodun the winner with 276,298 votes, defeating Adebutu, who garnered 262,383 votes.
Adebutu contested the outcome, alleging irregularities, non-compliance with the Electoral Act 2022, and disenfranchisement of over 40,000 voters due to violence.
Adebutu’s petition was initially dismissed by the Ogun State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal, and the Court of Appeal affirmed Abiodun as the legitimate winner.
Despite a split decision on November 24, 2023, the majority upheld the tribunal’s judgement, while the minority, led by Justice Jane Inyang, directed INEC to conduct a fresh election in specific polling units within 90 days.
Both Adebutu and Governor Abiodun appealed to the Supreme Court, challenging the appellate court’s decisions.
INEC also lodged a cross-appeal seeking validation of the election results it announced.
