SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS GOVERNOR HOPE UZODIMMA’S RE-ELECTION: IMO APC CHAIRMAN HAILS VICTORY

… _AP and APM Appeals Dismissed; N1 Million and N2 Million Costs Awarded to Respondents_

In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court of Nigeria on Monday, August 19, 2024, dismissed the appeals filed by the Accord Party (AP) and Allied Peoples Movement (APM) challenging the re-election of Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State. The court, in a unanimous decision, ruled that the appeals lacked merit and therefore upheld the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the November 11, 2023, governorship election.

The five-member panel of justices, led by Justice Mohammed Garba, delivered the judgment after carefully considering the arguments presented by all parties. The court further ordered the Accord Party to pay N1 million each to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), APC, and Governor Uzodimma to cover the costs of their responses to the appeal. Similarly, the APM was directed to pay N2 million each to INEC, APC, and the Governor.

Speaking to newsmen after the court’s decision, the State Party Chairman of the Imo APC, Hon. MacDonald Ebere, PhD, expressed his satisfaction with the ruling, describing it as a victory for democracy and the will of the people of Imo State. He lauded the Supreme Court for upholding justice and the rule of law, emphasizing that the decision reflects the popular mandate given to Governor Uzodimma by the electorate.

“This ruling is not just a victory for Governor Hope Uzodimma and the APC; it is a victory for the people of Imo State who have demonstrated their trust and confidence in our leadership. The Supreme Court has reaffirmed what we have always believed—that the will of the people is supreme,” Hon. Ebere stated.

He further called on the opposition parties to respect the court’s decision and refrain from actions that could disrupt the peace and progress of the state. “I urge our opponents to put aside their grievances and join hands with the government in moving Imo State forward. The election is over, and it is time to work together for the betterment of our state. The people of Imo deserve nothing less than our collective effort in building a prosperous future,” he added.

Hon. Ebere also highlighted the achievements of Governor Uzodimma’s administration in his first term, noting that the governor has laid a solid foundation for growth and development across various sectors. He reassured the people of Imo State that the government remains committed to fulfilling its promises and delivering more dividends of democracy in the years to come.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has reserved judgment on the appeals filed by the Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate, Athan Achonu, and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), both challenging Governor Uzodimma’s election.

As the political scene in Imo State continues to unfold, the APC and its supporters remain optimistic that Governor Uzodimma’s re-election will be upheld across all legal challenges, allowing the administration to focus on delivering its agenda for the people of the state.

©️ JULIAN CHIJIOKE