APGA National Secretary Praises Gov. Soludo, Barr. Ezeokenwa Amid Judiciary's Role in Resolving Leadership Crisis

 APGA NATIONAL SECRETARY PRAISES GOV. SOLUDO, BARR. EZEOKENWA AMID JUDICIARY’S ROLE IN RESOLVING LEADERSHIP CRISIS

The National Secretary of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Mr. Ibrahim Mani, has described the Judiciary as the beacon of hope for the masses in our modern society, particularly in upholding democratic values and ensuring the rule of law. 

This statement came after the court proceedings at the Federal High Court, Abuja, on the 21st of October 2024, presided over by the renowned jurist, Justice Omotosho. 

The case, which attracted the presence of numerous political stalwarts from within and outside the Federal Capital Territory, once again reaffirmed the critical role of the judiciary in resolving political disputes and fostering justice.

Justice Omotosho demonstrated exceptional professionalism during the court proceedings, allowing equal opportunities for all counsels to present their arguments in line with due process. 

The proceedings, which lasted over three hours, were focused on addressing the ongoing leadership tussle within APGA. The legal battle primarily centers around the legitimacy of Chief Ndozie Njoku's claim to the position of National Chairman of the party, a claim which was rigorously scrutinized during the session.

One of the key questions posed during the proceedings was the timeline of Chief Njoku's tenure. It was revealed that Njoku was elected National Chairman at a convention held in Owerri in 2019. However, when asked if any subsequent convention had been held to renew his tenure, the response was negative. This raised significant concerns about the legitimacy of his continued claim to the office, as the party’s constitution requires periodic conventions to affirm leadership positions.

Another critical issue that came under scrutiny was the purported amendment to the APGA constitution, which allegedly allowed an extension of tenure beyond the usual eight-year limit. The counsel representing Chief Njoku argued that the amendment was made during the 2019 Owerri convention. However, they struggled to provide consistent and verifiable evidence of this amendment, leaving their argument weakened under the sharp questioning by the counsel to Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, the plaintiff in the suit.

Barr. P.I.N Ekweto, SAN, counsel to Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, pointed out several inconsistencies in the defense presented by Njoku's team. One of the most significant points raised was the absence of any Supreme Court verdict affirming Njoku’s position as the National Chairman of APGA. Despite repeated attempts to produce such a ruling, the defense failed to provide any substantial documentation, further casting doubt on the legitimacy of Njoku's leadership.

In contrast, Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, widely regarded as the indispensable National Chairman of APGA, has consistently maintained that his election followed due process, and he remains committed to leading the party with integrity and transparency. His counsel presented strong arguments, backed by verifiable documents, underscoring the legal and constitutional basis for his leadership.

The leadership of APGA, under the National Leader, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo (CFR), who also serves as the Executive Governor of Anambra State, remains committed to upholding the party’s core values of justice and fairness. Governor Soludo’s developmental strides in Anambra State are a testimony to the party's dedication to improving the lives of the people. As the party looks ahead, the re-election of Governor Soludo in November 2025 is a priority, given his proven leadership and commitment to progress.

As the legal battle nears its conclusion, APGA members and supporters are urged to remain steadfast in their support of the party’s leadership. Mr. Ibrahim Mani emphasized that the judiciary will deliver justice, and the lingering litigation over the party's chairmanship will be laid to rest by the grace of God on the 20th of November, 2024, when the final verdict is expected.

Finally, Mr. Mani called on all party members to come out en masse to celebrate the anticipated victory, reiterating that APGA remains strong, united, and prepared for the challenges ahead. The judiciary’s role in safeguarding democracy has never been more critical, and its impartiality in this case serves as a beacon of hope for the masses in ensuring that justice prevails.