The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Imo State has rejected a Federal High Court ruling that recognised former governor Rochas Okorocha as its candidate for Imo West Senatorial District in the 2027 general elections. The party insisted that Governor Hope Uzodimma remains its flagbearer, citing the outcome of its senatorial primary. Uzodimma emerged victorious in the primary with overwhelming support from party members.
The APC State Publicity Secretary, Onwuasoanya Jones, issued a statement on Thursday, following the ruling by Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court, Abuja. The court ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to publish Okorocha’s name as the APC candidate for the senatorial district ahead of the January 16, 2027 election. The court also directed Uzodimma to stop presenting himself as the party’s candidate.
However, the APC maintained that Uzodimma remained its duly nominated candidate. The party said its legal department would study the court’s decision before determining its next course of action. The APC also called on its members and supporters to remain committed to the party’s political objectives and work towards securing victories across Imo State in the 2027 elections.
The dispute stems from the APC senatorial primary held on May 18, 2026, in which Uzodimma was declared the winner with 230,464 votes, while Okorocha was credited with 1,098 votes, according to INEC-recognised results. Dissatisfied with the outcome, Okorocha approached the court to challenge the process and Uzodimma’s recognition as the party’s candidate.
In its ruling, the court held that Okorocha was the lawful winner of the primary and ordered the APC to submit his name to INEC for publication as its candidate. The court questioned inconsistencies in documents submitted by the party in support of Uzodimma’s nomination.
The APC senatorial primary was a contentious event, with Okorocha and Uzodimma vying for the party’s ticket. Uzodimma’s victory was recognised by INEC, but Okorocha contested the outcome, leading to the court case. The party’s insistence on Uzodimma as its candidate suggests a potential rift within the party.
The APC’s rejection of the court ruling sets the stage for a potential showdown between Uzodimma and Okorocha. The party’s next course of action will likely determine the outcome of the Imo West Senatorial District election.
Key points
- The APC in Imo State has rejected a court ruling recognising Rochas Okorocha as its candidate for Imo West Senatorial District.
- Governor Hope Uzodimma remains the APC’s flagbearer for the senatorial district, according to the party.
- The party’s legal department will study the court’s decision before determining its next course of action.
