Jubilation erupted in Imo State as the Court of Appeal in Lagos, Nigeria, delivered a landmark ruling, sacking two lawmakers from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and affirming the victories of candidates from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP). Hon. Eddy Obinna representing Aboh Mbaise State Constituency and Hon. Obodo representing Owerri municipal have now been replaced by Ezinwa Princewill Ugochukwu Amuchie of the PDP and Clinton Amadi of the LP, respectively.
The legal battle began after Amuchie contested the victory of Obinna at the Election Petitions Tribunal in March 2023. Despite the tribunal’s ruling in favor of Amuchie, Obinna decided to challenge the decision by filing an appeal. However, the Appeal Court has now dismissed Obinna’s appeal, delivering a final blow to his hopes.
In its ruling, the Appeal Court directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to withdraw the Certificate of Return issued to Obinna and promptly issue it to Amuchie, establishing him as the legitimate winner of the Aboh-Mbaise House of Assembly seat. This decision signifies the end of the road for Obinna, who served as a lawmaker from 2019 to 2023. The same verdict also confirmed Amadi as the rightful winner of the Owerri Municipal Constituency seat.
As a result of these outcomes, the APC now sees its majority in the Imo State House of Assembly reduced from 25 to 23 seats, with the PDP securing two seats, the Accord Party with one, and the LP with one as well.
The news of the Appeal Court’s ruling has ignited widespread jubilation, resonating particularly in Owerri municipal and Aboh Mbaise Constituencies. Residents are celebrating the victory of Amuchie and Amadi, anticipating their formal inauguration into the 10th House of Assembly, which is scheduled for November 30th, 2023, or a subsequent date.
This court judgment marks a significant turning point in Imo State’s political landscape and has already resulted in shifts in power dynamics within the State House of Assembly. As the dust settles, the attention now turns to the upcoming assembly session, where Amuchie and Amadi will formally assume their roles as representatives of their respective constituencies.
The ruling has grabbed the attention of the entire state, as it sets a precedent for future election disputes and signals a potential realignment of political forces. With eyes fixed on Imo State, stakeholders, and residents eagerly await the impact these new lawmakers will have on governance and the trajectory of their constituencies.
The Appeal Court’s ruling acts as a reminder of the importance of a fair and impartial legal system in upholding democracy. As Imo State prepares for this new chapter, the anticipation of positive change and political accountability hangs in the air, drawing the attention of both local and global observers alike.
