The Oodua Progressive Youth League (OPYL) has condemned what it described as a blatant disregard for the rule of law by Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, over the conduct of the All Progressives Congress (APC) State Congress despite a subsisting court order.
In a statement signed by its General Secretary, Mr. Wale Abdulwaheed, the group called on the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress to immediately caution the governor and review the outcome of the congress.
According to OPYL, a Federal High Court sitting in Akure had issued an order restraining the APC from conducting its congresses, including the State Congress. However, the congress was reportedly held at the International Culture and Event Centre (The Dome) in Akure in defiance of the court directive.
The group described the governor’s action as “shocking and disappointing,” arguing that such conduct undermines the sanctity of judicial pronouncements and weakens democratic institutions.
“It is particularly disheartening that a public office holder who has benefited from the judiciary would brazenly disregard a lawful order of a competent court,” the statement read. “Such actions send dangerous signals about respect for the rule of law in our democracy.”
OPYL further alleged that this was not the first instance of disregard for judicial decisions under the current administration.
It cited a December 31, 2025 ruling by a Magistrate Court involving the state’s Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Seun Osamaye, noting that subsequent developments raised questions about adherence to judicial processes.
The group warned that persistent disobedience of court orders could erode public trust in governance and portray the state in a negative light both nationally and internationally.
Meanwhile, OPYL commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for allegedly declining to participate in the State Congress.
It described the electoral body’s stance as a demonstration of respect for constitutional order and due process.
The group also lauded the leadership of INEC, stating that its actions had reinforced public confidence in democratic institutions.
Calling for urgent intervention, OPYL urged the national leadership of the APC to nullify the congress conducted by what it described as the governor’s faction, warning that any endorsement of the exercise could have political consequences for the party in Ondo State.
As of press time, there was no official response from the Ondo State Government or the APC regarding the allegations.
