A former Governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorocha, has expressed concern over comments made by aides of Governor Hope Uzodimma, criticizing the judiciary over a recent court judgment. On October 29, a Federal High Court in Abuja nullified Uzodimma's emergence as the All Progressives Congress candidate for Imo West Senatorial District in the 2027 elections. The judgment, delivered by Justice Obiora Egwuatu, recognized Okorocha as the winner of the party's May 18 senatorial primary.
Okorocha was speaking at the Federal High Court premises in Abuja, where he had gone to sign some documents related to Uzodimma's appeal against the judgment. He condemned comments attributed to Uzodimma's Deputy Chief of Staff and the APC National Vice Chairman, who reportedly described the judgment as "rubbish and procured." Okorocha described these comments as "terrible" and "uncivilized," and urged Uzodimma to caution his aides against denigrating the judiciary.
The former governor emphasized that the court's decision should be respected, adding that Uzodimma had benefited from favourable court judgments in the past. Okorocha expressed confidence in the Nigerian judiciary, saying he believed the right thing would be done in the appeal. He encouraged Uzodimma to pursue his appeal up to the Supreme Court, rather than allowing his supporters to intimidate the judiciary.
The dispute arose from the Federal High Court's October 29 judgment, which nullified Uzodimma's emergence as the APC candidate for Imo West Senatorial District. Justice Egwuatu held that Okorocha secured the highest number of lawful votes in the party's May 18 primary and was therefore entitled to the ticket. The court ordered the APC to submit Okorocha's name to INEC as its candidate for the January 16, 2027 senatorial election.
Okorocha's concerns reflect a broader issue of respect for the judiciary in Nigeria's electoral process. The incident highlights the need for politicians to maintain civility and respect for institutions, even in the face of disagreement. As the appeal process unfolds, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how Uzodimma responds to Okorocha's call for caution.
The development has implications for the 2027 elections in Imo State, particularly in the Imo West Senatorial District. With the court's judgment in favour of Okorocha, the APC may need to adjust its strategy and candidate list. The situation underscores the complexities and challenges of Nigeria's electoral process, where court judgments can significantly impact the outcome of elections.
Key points
- Okorocha urges Uzodimma to caution his aides against attacking the judiciary over a court judgment nullifying Uzodimma's emergence as the APC candidate for Imo West Senatorial District.
