Nigerian Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, representing Ondo South, announced on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, his decision to withdraw his legal suit against the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
Senator Ibrahim had approached the Federal High Court in Abuja to challenge the recent gubernatorial primary election held by the APC in Ondo State. He claimed that there was no voting in his senatorial district and much of the state. Following his legal action, the APC executives in Igbotako Ward II, Okitipupa local government area of Ondo State, suspended him from the party, citing alleged anti-party activities and insubordination.
However, in a briefing at the Senate on Tuesday, Senator Ibrahim revealed that he decided to withdraw the suit after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu intervened in the matter. In his statement titled “Presidential intervention and notice of withdrawal suit No. FHC /ABJ/ CS/588/2024,” Ibrahim explained that the President had personally called and met with him, assuring him of efforts to improve internal democracy within the APC.
“The suit is now withdrawn due to the intervention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR,” Ibrahim stated. “The President called me, had a meeting with me, and assured me that he will as the leader of the party improve on internal democracy within our party, and I will need to withdraw the case to enable him to chart a way forward.”
Senator Ibrahim also mentioned that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa had made several attempts to meet with him, including a lengthy visit to his Asokoro residence.
“I cannot disobey the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria because the issue I am fighting for is not personal. It is simply to improve internal democracy, to which the President has promised improvement. My respect for the President is absolute!” Ibrahim declared.
He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his wisdom and encouragement during their interactions, emphasizing his commitment to enhancing internal democracy within the party.
“The withdrawal of this legendary suit coincides with the first anniversary of Mr. President’s incredible performance in office, and this is my gift of the ‘cake’ of the first anniversary!” Ibrahim concluded.
