Breaking! Federal High Court Orders INEC To Recognize Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa-Led APGA Leadership, Declares Njoku’s Faction Unlawful – Written
by Nduka Anyanwu, Sa- Media to The National Chairman APGA, Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa
In a landmark ruling today, November 20, 2024, the Federal High Court in Abuja declared Chief Edozie Njoku’s leadership of the All-Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) unlawful. The court ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to delete Njoku’s name and other purported national officers from its records and instead recognize Barr. Sly
Ezeokenwa and the National Officers elected during APGA’s National Convention held in Awka, Anambra State, on May 31, 2023.
This judgment validates the resolutions of the Awka Convention and puts an end to months of legal wrangling and political uncertainty over the leadership of APGA. The court’s decision emphasizes the sanctity of internal party processes and underscores INEC’s obligation to uphold lawful party conventions.
Background of the Case
The APGA leadership tussle has been a long and winding road. It all started in 2021 when Chief Jude Okeke and Edozie Njoku tried to validate their supposed APGA
National Convention held in Owerri, Imo State. However, things took a turn when the Court of Appeal Kano Division invalidated the proceedings and judgment
delivered by the Jigawa State High Court. This meant that Okeke and Njoku’s claims to leadership were essentially null and void.
The Court Rulings
1. Court of Appeal Kano Division: Invalidated the proceedings and judgment delivered by the Jigawa State High Court, dealing a blow to Okeke and Njoku’s leadership claims.
2. Supreme Court: Affirmed the Court of Appeal’s judgment, confirming Chief Victor Ike Oye as the validly elected National Chairman of APGA.
Former National Chairman Ozonkpu Dr. Victor Oye has been vocal about the issue, denying allegations that a court declared Edozie Njoku the new APGA National Chairman. This clarification was made on Channels Television’s ‘Political Paradigm’
program.
The latest development in the saga is the Federal High Court’s ruling, declaring Edozie Njoku’s leadership unlawful and ordering INEC to recognize Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa as the authentic leader of APGA. This decision is expected to bring
some much-needed clarity to the party’s leadership structure.
Implications of the Judgment
The Federal High Court’s ruling is a major win for Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa and his team, solidifying their position as the legitimate leaders of APGA. This judgment reinforces
the principle of due process, which is essential for maintaining stability within party structures.
Key Implications of the Judgment
1. Legitimacy Reinforced: The ruling confirms Ezeokenwa’s leadership, putting an end to the leadership tussle that has plagued APGA ¹.
2. Harmony Restored: The judgment is expected to bring peace within the party, resolving internal conflicts and promoting unity among members.
3. Clarity for Stakeholders: The ruling provides clarity on the party’s leadership, eliminating confusion among supporters and stakeholders.
4. INEC’s Role: INEC is now required to recognize Ezeokenwa’s leadership, ensuring stability and order within APGA.
Impact on APGA’s Future
This judgment is crucial for APGA’s future, particularly in the upcoming 2025 governorship election in Anambra State. With the leadership tussle resolved, the party can focus on preparing for the election, united under Ezeokenwa’s leadership. Former National Chairman Ozonkpu Dr. Victor Oye has expressed
confidence that the internal issues will not affect Governor Soludo’s re-election bid.
Overall, the Federal High Court’s ruling marks a significant turning point for APGA, paving the way for a more stable and united party.
Note: This article was written for and on-behalf of Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa, APGA, National Chairman.
