Akure, Nigeria – June 13, 2025
The Court of Appeal has issued a stay of execution on the judgment earlier delivered by the High Court of Ondo State in the electoral dispute between Mr. Kolawole Ogundipe and the Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC), along with three other respondents.
The appellate court’s decision, grounded in Order 6 Rule 1 of the Court of Appeal Rules 2021, suspends all actions resulting from the lower court’s ruling delivered on May 28, 2025, in Suit No. HOD/152/2024.
In addition to the stay of execution, the Court of Appeal granted an order of injunction pending appeal, effectively restraining ODIEC from issuing a certificate of return to Mr. Ogundipe, the 1st respondent. This injunction will remain in place until the court hears and decides on the appeal filed by Hon. Kamarudeen, the councillor representing Ward 8, who is challenging the High Court’s judgment.
According to legal experts, the ruling preserves the status quo and halts any further administrative or electoral actions by ODIEC regarding the disputed council seat, pending the outcome of the appeal.
Reacting to the development, Hon. Kamarudeen expressed unwavering confidence in the judiciary and optimism about a favorable verdict from the appellate court. He urged his supporters and residents of the affected ward to remain peaceful and law-abiding.
“I believe justice will prevail. I urge everyone to stay peaceful and trust the legal process,” he said.
Attempts to reach Mr. Kolawole Ogundipe for comments on the appeal and the appellate court’s decision were unsuccessful as of the time of publishing this report.
The political climate in the area remains calm, with stakeholders and residents closely watching developments as the legal proceedings continue.