Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has downplayed growing discussions about a potential 2028 governorship contest, stating that his administration is currently focused on governance rather than future political ambitions, ENigeri Newspaper has gathered.
During an appearance on Politics Today on Channels Television, the deputy-turned-governor said conversations around another election are premature, stressing that legal battles linked to his tenure should not distract from the responsibility of leading the state.
Aiyedatiwa explained that since assuming office about a year ago, his attention has remained on implementing policies and delivering the promises made to the people of Ondo State.
“I was sworn in not long ago, and my priority is to govern effectively and fulfil our commitments to the people. The court matters being discussed are unnecessary distractions from the task at hand,” he said.
He also clarified that he has neither announced plans to run for another term nor sought judicial clarification on his eligibility for any future election.
When asked whether he might consider contesting again if the legal dispute eventually reaches the Supreme Court and is decided in his favour, the governor suggested that any such decision would depend on public support and the provisions of the law.
“If the people feel I have served them well and ask me to continue, and the law allows it, then we will see,” he said.
Recall that Aiyedatiwa initially assumed office on December 27, 2024, following the death of former governor Rotimi Akeredolu. He later secured his own mandate after defeating Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party in the November 16, 2024 governorship election and was sworn in for a new term on February 24, 2025.
The remarks follow a decision by the Federal High Court in Akure which ruled that Aiyedatiwa cannot participate in the 2028 governorship race. Delivering the judgment, Justice Toyin Bolaji Adegoke stated that the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria limits the tenure of a governor or deputy governor to a maximum of eight years, noting that permitting another term would violate the constitutional provision.
The court further held that it had the authority to interpret the Constitution on the matter, dismissing arguments that the suit was merely speculative.
The case was initiated by Dr. Akin Egbuwalo, a member of the All Progressives Congress, who listed Aiyedatiwa, his deputy Olayide Adelami, and the party among the defendants.
