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Drama Ends as Njoku Accepts Supreme Court Verdict on APGA Leadership"

By Achimi muktar 

In a political saga that gripped the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) for months, Edozie Njoku, a key figure in the party, has finally accepted the Supreme Court ruling that affirmed Sylvester Ezeokenwa as the national chairman of the party. The decision marks the conclusion of a contentious leadership battle that saw multiple court cases and divided loyalties within the party.

The Courtroom Battle

The leadership tussle, involving Sylvester Ezeokenwa, Victor Oye, and Edozie Njoku, reached its climax last week when Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognize Ezeokenwa as the legitimate APGA chairman. The ruling was subsequently upheld by the Supreme Court on Wednesday.

Delivering a unanimous decision, a five-member panel led by Justice Stephen Adah declared that Njoku had no basis for claiming the party’s chairmanship and should cease parading himself as such.

Njoku's Response: A Call for Order

Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Njoku expressed his intention to comply with the Supreme Court’s ruling, emphasizing his respect for the rule of law.

“Everyone who knows me knows I believe in the rule of law and hierarchy,” Njoku said. “The hierarchy of the judiciary in Nigeria is the Supreme Court. When the Supreme Court speaks, no matter how you feel, you must obey.”

Njoku stressed the importance of maintaining law and order, urging Nigerians to accept judicial decisions as final. “We must follow the system. Things cannot just turn to suit Chief Edozie Njoku or anyone else. The grassroots will ultimately decide their leaders,” he added.

A Controversial Journey

The APGA leadership dispute began after two separate conventions in 2023 produced different chairmanship candidates. While Ezeokenwa was elected chairman at a convention in Awka, Anambra State, Njoku claimed leadership following a parallel convention in Owerri, Imo State.

The conflict escalated in July 2024 when INEC initially recognized Njoku as chairman, citing a court order. However, subsequent legal battles culminated in the Supreme Court’s affirmation of Ezeokenwa’s leadership.

Looking Ahead

Despite his disappointment, Njoku struck a tone of optimism, emphasizing that the party’s grassroots remain its ultimate strength. “The people of Anambra State will speak in the next election, and their voice will be resounding,” he said.

He also praised the Chief Justice of Nigeria for working to restore credibility to the judiciary. “I will not be a clog in the wheel of progress. I respect the efforts being made to ensure the judiciary survives this critical period,” Njoku stated.

Ezeokenwa’s Leadership and APGA’s Future

Sylvester Ezeokenwa, elected at the Awka convention in May 2023, has since focused on uniting the party and preparing for upcoming elections. With the leadership dispute resolved, APGA can now shift its attention to rebuilding its base and competing in future electoral contests.

As the dust settles, all eyes are on Ezeokenwa to steer the party forward, while Njoku’s acceptance of the judgment signals a much-needed end to the infighting. For APGA members and supporters, the hope is that the party emerges stronger and more united in its quest for political relevance.