Chekwas Okorie: Unmasking a Legacy of Political Blackmail and Deception

 CHEKWAS OKORIE: UNMASKING A LEGACY OF POLITICAL BLACKMAIL AND DECEPTION

By Wole Adedoyin

In the political landscape of Nigeria, few names stir controversy like that of Chief Chekwas Okorie. 

Mazi Ejimofor Opara, the National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), recently penned a scathing article labeling Okorie as a serial blackmailer. This piece aims to shed light on the allegations and controversies surrounding Okorie’s actions, particularly his recent attacks on the Supreme Court and the Presidency.

Chief Chekwas Okorie's latest antics involve an attempt to rehabilitate the tarnished image of Edozie Njoku and his associates, whom Opara describes as political schemers. According to Opara, Okorie has resorted to his familiar strategy of leveling baseless accusations against high-ranking institutions to serve his interests. In a recent speech, Okorie alleged that Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State had made arrangements to influence the Supreme Court to reverse its decisions. Such claims, Opara argues, are unfounded and serve only to mislead the public and undermine the credibility of the judiciary.

On July 14, 2024, Okorie and his cohort, including their financier Nicholas Ukachukwu, met to strategize on using blackmail to legitimize their dubious actions. 

This meeting, Opara suggests, stressed their desperation and willingness to resort to unethical methods to achieve their goals. To challenge Okorie's assertions, Opara poses three critical questions that demand clear, evidence-based responses.

First, Opara challenges Okorie to provide the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) report on the purported 2019 APGA convention in Owerri. According to Opara, no such document exists, and any claims to the contrary are fabrications meant to deceive.

Secondly, Opara asks for the judgment of any court, including the Supreme Court, that recognizes Edozie Njoku as the National Chairman of APGA. He asserts that no such judgment exists, and any suggestion otherwise is a blatant lie.

Thirdly, Opara highlights the dubious origins of Njoku’s current claims, stemming from a discredited judgment by a High Court in Jigawa. The Kano Court of Appeal, in 2021, had unanimously dismissed this judgment, asserting that the Jigawa High Court lacked jurisdiction over the matter. This judgment came in the lead-up to the Anambra governorship election, which Soludo won decisively.

Opara's critique extends beyond Okorie’s recent actions. He accuses Okorie of having a long history of blackmail and political opportunism. Over the past two decades, Okorie has allegedly used blackmail as a tool to further his political ambitions. He has been accused of attempting to destroy APGA, despite his claims of wanting to preserve the party. His involvement with the United Progressive Party (UPP) and subsequent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) are cited as evidence of his opportunistic tendencies.

According to Opara, Okorie's actions reveal him as a political jobber with no verifiable means of livelihood. His continuous search for political relevance through blackmail and deception has, in Opara's view, made him a character not to be taken seriously. Despite his efforts, Okorie has not succeeded in his attempts to gain political power or influence.

Opara suggests that Okorie's latest blackmail attempt is a testimony to his unchanging nature. 

Rather than pursuing legitimate political engagement, Okorie continues to rely on unethical tactics. His current alignment with Nicholas Ukachukwu, Opara argues, is another example of his willingness to ally with anyone who can support his dubious endeavors.

The APGA National Publicity Secretary concludes that Okorie's game plan is now transparent to all. His consistent pattern of blackmail has alienated him from serious political circles. Except for Ukachukwu, no one is willing to support his unscrupulous activities. Opara’s article paints a picture of a man desperate for relevance but unable to escape the shadows of his own making

APGA Southwest Condemns INEC's Support for Njoku, Calls for Restoration of Ezeokenwa

 

APGA SOUTHWEST REJECTS INEC RECOGNITION OF NJOKU, CALLS FOR REVERSAL

The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the Southwest region, under the leadership of Alh. Suraj Owolabi, has firmly rejected the recognition of Edozie Njoku by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This decision by INEC has been met with strong disapproval from the Southwest APGA caucus, which includes Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo, and Osun states.

In a recent statement, the Southwest APGA caucus criticized INEC's action, urging the electoral body to reverse its recognition of Njoku. 

The caucus emphasized that Edozie Njoku was not a product of any National Convention of APGA, and INEC did not monitor any such convention where Njoku was purportedly elected as the National Chairman of the party.

Alh. Suraj Owolabi, the Southwest Chairman, expressed his dismay over INEC's decision. He remarked, "I am disturbed that INEC is still living in the dark. Just when we were celebrating the growth of our democracy, someone within INEC, possibly the chairman, decided that Nigeria's democratic progress needed to be slowed down. Such a person must be an enemy of progress."

Owolabi continued, "How could someone proclaim or announce recognition of a non-existent person from a non-existent group as the National Chairman of a vibrant, functioning political party like APGA? Such proclamations must have occurred in Nigeria's first or second republics. It is a primitive pronouncement that shouldn't be taken seriously, but for the sake of innocent Nigerians who might not understand the antic."

He further stressed, "If Nigeria is to progress democratically, individuals who can move with the tide of time should be in charge of our nation's affairs. Nigeria will survive."

The Southwest APGA caucus has thrown its full support behind Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, who they assert was duly elected in accordance with the Electoral Act, the Party's Constitution, and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The caucus condemned INEC's actions as undemocratic and unconstitutional, accusing the electoral body of attempting to tarnish the hard-earned reputation of APGA. They urged INEC to withdraw its recognition of Njoku and issue an apology to the party and its members.

Alh. Suraj Owolabi emphasized the need for INEC to act responsibly and uphold democratic principles. He stated, "INEC must understand that its role is to facilitate democracy, not hinder it. Recognizing an illegitimate leader only serves to undermine the integrity of our electoral process."

The Southwest APGA caucus remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that the will of its members is respected and that the party's leadership reflects the true choice of its delegates. They called on all party members and supporters to remain vigilant and continue to advocate for justice and transparency within the political system.

Finally, the Southwest APGA caucus reiterated its call for INEC to reverse its recognition of Edozie Njoku and to restore the rightful leadership of Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa. They vowed to pursue all necessary legal and political avenues to protect the integrity of the party and Nigeria's democracy.

APGA Southwest Condemns INEC's Support for Njoku, Calls for Restoration of Ezeokenwa

 APGA SOUTHWEST REJECTS INEC RECOGNITION OF NJOKU, CALLS FOR REVERSAL

The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the Southwest region, under the leadership of Alh. Suraj Owolabi, has firmly rejected the recognition of Edozie Njoku by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This decision by INEC has been met with strong disapproval from the Southwest APGA caucus, which includes Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo, and Osun states.

In a recent statement, the Southwest APGA caucus criticized INEC's action, urging the electoral body to reverse its recognition of Njoku. 

The caucus emphasized that Edozie Njoku was not a product of any National Convention of APGA, and INEC did not monitor any such convention where Njoku was purportedly elected as the National Chairman of the party.

Alh. Suraj Owolabi, the Southwest Chairman, expressed his dismay over INEC's decision. He remarked, "I am disturbed that INEC is still living in the dark. Just when we were celebrating the growth of our democracy, someone within INEC, possibly the chairman, decided that Nigeria's democratic progress needed to be slowed down. Such a person must be an enemy of progress."

Owolabi continued, "How could someone proclaim or announce recognition of a non-existent person from a non-existent group as the National Chairman of a vibrant, functioning political party like APGA? Such proclamations must have occurred in Nigeria's first or second republics. It is a primitive pronouncement that shouldn't be taken seriously, but for the sake of innocent Nigerians who might not understand the antic."

He further stressed, "If Nigeria is to progress democratically, individuals who can move with the tide of time should be in charge of our nation's affairs. Nigeria will survive."

The Southwest APGA caucus has thrown its full support behind Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, who they assert was duly elected in accordance with the Electoral Act, the Party's Constitution, and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The caucus condemned INEC's actions as undemocratic and unconstitutional, accusing the electoral body of attempting to tarnish the hard-earned reputation of APGA. They urged INEC to withdraw its recognition of Njoku and issue an apology to the party and its members.

Alh. Suraj Owolabi emphasized the need for INEC to act responsibly and uphold democratic principles. He stated, "INEC must understand that its role is to facilitate democracy, not hinder it. Recognizing an illegitimate leader only serves to undermine the integrity of our electoral process."

The Southwest APGA caucus remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that the will of its members is respected and that the party's leadership reflects the true choice of its delegates. They called on all party members and supporters to remain vigilant and continue to advocate for justice and transparency within the political system.

Finally, the Southwest APGA caucus reiterated its call for INEC to reverse its recognition of Edozie Njoku and to restore the rightful leadership of Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa. They vowed to pursue all necessary legal and political avenues to protect the integrity of the party and Nigeria's democracy.

APGA Southwest Rejects INEC Recognition of Njoku, Calls for Reversal

 APGA SOUTHWEST REJECTS INEC RECOGNITION OF NJOKU, CALLS FOR REVERSAL

The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the Southwest region, under the leadership of Alh. Suraj Owolabi, has firmly rejected the recognition of Edozie Njoku by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This decision by INEC has been met with strong disapproval from the Southwest APGA caucus, which includes Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo, and Osun states.

In a recent statement, the Southwest APGA caucus criticized INEC's action, urging the electoral body to reverse its recognition of Njoku. 

The caucus emphasized that Edozie Njoku was not a product of any National Convention of APGA, and INEC did not monitor any such convention where Njoku was purportedly elected as the National Chairman of the party.

Alh. Suraj Owolabi, the Southwest Chairman, expressed his dismay over INEC's decision. He remarked, "I am disturbed that INEC is still living in the dark. Just when we were celebrating the growth of our democracy, someone within INEC, possibly the chairman, decided that Nigeria's democratic progress needed to be slowed down. Such a person must be an enemy of progress."

Owolabi continued, "How could someone proclaim or announce recognition of a non-existent person from a non-existent group as the National Chairman of a vibrant, functioning political party like APGA? Such proclamations must have occurred in Nigeria's first or second republics. It is a primitive pronouncement that shouldn't be taken seriously, but for the sake of innocent Nigerians who might not understand the antic."

He further stressed, "If Nigeria is to progress democratically, individuals who can move with the tide of time should be in charge of our nation's affairs. Nigeria will survive."

The Southwest APGA caucus has thrown its full support behind Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, who they assert was duly elected in accordance with the Electoral Act, the Party's Constitution, and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The caucus condemned INEC's actions as undemocratic and unconstitutional, accusing the electoral body of attempting to tarnish the hard-earned reputation of APGA. They urged INEC to withdraw its recognition of Njoku and issue an apology to the party and its members.

Alh. Suraj Owolabi emphasized the need for INEC to act responsibly and uphold democratic principles. He stated, "INEC must understand that its role is to facilitate democracy, not hinder it. Recognizing an illegitimate leader only serves to undermine the integrity of our electoral process."

The Southwest APGA caucus remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that the will of its members is respected and that the party's leadership reflects the true choice of its delegates. They called on all party members and supporters to remain vigilant and continue to advocate for justice and transparency within the political system.

Finally, the Southwest APGA caucus reiterated its call for INEC to reverse its recognition of Edozie Njoku and to restore the rightful leadership of Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa. They vowed to pursue all necessary legal and political avenues to protect the integrity of the party and Nigeria's democracy.

A Critical Examination Of APGA Leadership Dispute by Wole Adedoyin

 

INEC'S MISINTERPRETATION OF COURT JUDGMENT: A CRITICAL EXAMINATION OF APGA LEADERSHIP DISPUTE

 

By Wole Adedoyin

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recently released a statement recognizing Edozie Njoku as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), a decision that has sparked significant controversy and criticism. This article delves into the flawed interpretation of court judgments by INEC, highlighting the discrepancies and errors in their recognition of Njoku.

INEC's statement claims that its decision is based on the Court of Appeal's judgment affirming an earlier judgment by the FCT High Court, Bwari Judicial Division. However, this interpretation is fundamentally flawed. Neither the FCT High Court judgment nor the Court of Appeal's judgment declared Edozie Njoku as the National Chairman of APGA. INEC's assertion that it is complying with the Supreme Court's corrected judgment is equally erroneous, as the Supreme Court did not pronounce Njoku as the National Chairman.

Edozie Njoku's claim to the National Chairmanship of APGA is based on a purported victory in a non-existent Owerri convention in 2019, which allegedly granted him a four-year tenure. Even if this were true, Njoku's claimed tenure would have ended in 2023. APGA has since conducted a National Convention that elected Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa as the new National Chairman, rendering any claims by Njoku obsolete.

The Supreme Court's corrected judgment has been clarified by the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, under Hon Justice James Omotosho. This court explicitly stated that the Supreme Court did not recognize Njoku as the National Chairman, affirming Chief Victor Ike Oye's leadership during the disputed period. This judgment was upheld by the Court of Appeal, yet INEC chose to ignore these clarifications, further complicating the situation.

Neither Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa nor APGA was a party to the suit leading to the judgment INEC purportedly enforced. Edozie Njoku himself was not involved in the suit under review. This raises questions about how INEC arrived at its decision and whether it has the authority to unilaterally determine APGA's leadership.

Reports suggest that INEC's hasty decision was influenced by blackmail and threats of legal consequences, including the potential imprisonment of the INEC Chairman for contempt of court. This pressure led INEC to overlook a pending appeal and motion for stay of execution filed by Chief Victor Oye, violating judicial norms that require respect for pending court processes.

INEC's decision represents a clear case of arbitrariness and legal overreach. While INEC has a constitutional mandate to regulate political parties, its actions must align with the law. The commission's recognition of Njoku, despite the lack of any court pronouncement to that effect, undermines the judicial system's integrity and APGA's internal processes.

APGA, a law-abiding party, has instructed its legal team to challenge INEC's decision in court. The party emphasizes that the leadership tussle between Chief Victor Ike Oye and Edozie Njoku is a closed chapter, with the tenure in question having expired over a year ago. Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa remains the duly elected National Chairman, and no court has nullified his chairmanship.

INEC's arbitrary decision threatens the stability and progress APGA has made under its current leadership. The commission should not become a stumbling block to the party's advancement by succumbing to the influence of selfish and desperate politicians.

APGA calls on INEC to reverse its decision in the interest of justice. The party urges its members and the public to remain calm and assured that this obstacle will be overcome. APGA's commitment to legal processes and the rule of law will guide its response to this challenge.

APGA Osun Greets Mazi Ejimofor Opara, Alh. Suraj Owolabi on their birthdays

 OSUN APGA GREETS MAZI EJIMOFOR OPARA, ALH. SURAJ OWOLABI ON THEIR BIRTHDAYS

The leadership of the Osun State Chapter of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has congratulated Mazi Ejimofor Opara, the National Publicity Secretary of APGA, and Alhaji Suraj Owolabi, the National Vice Chairman (Southwest) of APGA, on the joyous occasion of their birthdays today.

In a press statement issued by the Chairman of the Osun State Chapter of APGA, Wole Adedoyin, the party lauded the exceptional contributions of both leaders to the growth and success of APGA at the national level. Adedoyin highlighted their unwavering dedication, commitment, and exemplary leadership within the party.

“Mazi Ejimofor Opara has been a pillar of strength and a beacon of inspiration for many within our party,” Adedoyin said. “His role as National Publicity Secretary has been pivotal in enhancing the visibility and credibility of APGA across the nation. We are proud to celebrate his achievements and wish him continued success in all his endeavors.”

Similarly, Adedoyin praised Alhaji Suraj Owolabi for his steadfast leadership and invaluable contributions as the National Vice Chairman (Southwest). “Alhaji Owolabi’s efforts in strengthening the party’s presence in the Southwest region are commendable,” Adedoyin noted. “His dedication and tireless work have significantly bolstered our party’s growth and influence in this crucial region.”

The Osun APGA Chairman further emphasized the importance of unity and collective effort in achieving the party’s goals. He urged all members to draw inspiration from the exemplary leadership of Mazi Ejimofor Opara and Alhaji Suraj Owolabi. “As we celebrate these two outstanding leaders, let us renew our commitment to the ideals and principles that APGA stands for,” Adedoyin encouraged.

Adedoyin also extended his best wishes to the families of Opara and Owolabi, acknowledging the support and sacrifices that have enabled these leaders to serve the party and the nation effectively. “Behind every great leader is a supportive family,” he said. “We appreciate their unwavering support and pray for their continued strength and unity.”

The statement highlighted the significant milestones achieved by APGA under the guidance of Opara and Owolabi, including successful campaigns, policy advocacy, and community engagement initiatives. Adedoyin expressed confidence in their continued contributions towards a brighter future for the party.

In celebrating the birthdays of these distinguished leaders, the Osun State Chapter of APGA reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a progressive and inclusive political environment. Adedoyin called on all party members and supporters to join in the celebrations and to remain steadfast in their support for the party’s leadership.

“On behalf of the entire Osun APGA family, we wish Mazi Ejimofor Opara and Alhaji Suraj Owolabi a joyous and memorable birthday celebration,” Adedoyin concluded. “May they be blessed with good health, prosperity, and many more years of impactful service to our great party and the nation.”

APGA Denounces INEC's Misinterpretation, Affirms Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa As National Chairman

 APGA DENOUNCES INEC'S MISINTERPRETATION, AFFIRMS BARR. SLY EZEOKENWA AS NATIONAL CHAIRMAN

By Wole Adedoyin

The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has expressed strong condemnation of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) following a statement released by the commission. INEC's statement claimed recognition of Edozie Njoku as the National Chairman of APGA, citing a judgment by the Court of Appeal that allegedly affirmed an earlier FCT High Court ruling. This announcement has prompted a stern rebuttal from APGA.

Mazi Ejimofor Opara KSM, the National Publicity Secretary of APGA, issued a press statement rejecting INEC's interpretation of the Court of Appeal's judgment. According to Opara, neither the FCT High Court nor the Court of Appeal ever declared Edozie Njoku as APGA's National Chairman. Furthermore, Opara pointed out that there is no court mandate for INEC to recognize Njoku, nor is there evidence of INEC monitoring any convention held by Njoku.

APGA criticized INEC's decision, which it based on an incorrect interpretation of the Supreme Court's corrected judgment from March 24, 2023. The party emphasized that the Supreme Court never pronounced Njoku as the National Chairman, and this was reinforced by a concurring judgment from one of the Court of Appeal Justices. The party questioned the basis of INEC's decision, noting that it was not grounded in any court judgment.

Additionally, Opara highlighted that Njoku had claimed to have won the National Chairmanship in a purported 2019 Owerri convention, which would have had a four-year tenure ending in 2023. Regardless, the tenure in question has already elapsed, and APGA has since conducted a National Convention that elected Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa as the National Chairman.

The statement stressed that no existing court judgment recognizes Njoku as the National Chairman. Opara recounted an incident where Jude Okeke, claiming to be APGA's National Chairman, was dismissed by the Court of Appeal, which affirmed Victor Oye's position—a judgment upheld by the Supreme Court.

Moreover, APGA noted that the correct interpretation of the Supreme Court's judgment was clarified by Hon Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division. This judgment was affirmed by the Court of Appeal, establishing that neither the Supreme Court nor any other court had recognized Njoku as APGA's National Chairman.

The party expressed concern over INEC's decision, emphasizing that neither Ezeokenwa nor APGA was involved in the suit leading to the contested judgment. APGA suggested that INEC acted under pressure and ignored a pending appeal and stay of execution motion filed by Chief Victor Oye, choosing instead to enforce a judgment that did not declare Njoku as Chairman.

APGA reiterated that Njoku is not recognized as the National Chairman by any court. The party called for INEC to operate within legal boundaries, criticizing the commission's arbitrary actions. 

APGA announced plans to challenge INEC's decision in court, affirming that the current leadership under Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa remains legitimate.

The party assured its members and the public of its commitment to overcoming this challenge, urging calm and patience. APGA called on INEC to reverse its decision in the interest of justice, vowing to continue its progress despite the recent setback.

APGA remains confident that with divine guidance, the party will triumph over this obstacle.