Chief Edozie Njoku has announced his acceptance of the Supreme Court ruling that removed him as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that on Wednesday, the Supreme Court officially recognized Sylvester Ezeokenwa as the legitimate national chairman of APGA, effectively ending a prolonged leadership dispute that has plagued the party for years.
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled that Njoku was prohibited from representing himself as the APGA national chairman. In his decision, he stated there was no valid court ruling that acknowledged Njoku’s position.
Furthermore, Omotosho asserted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had made a mistake by endorsing Njoku’s leadership.
Unwilling to accept this verdict, Njoku appealed to the Supreme Court to overturn it. However, during the proceedings on Wednesday, the apex court dismissed his appeal as frivolous and imposed a penalty of N20 million for each of the three charges against him.
In a news conference in Abuja following the verdict, Njoku expressed his commitment to the rule of law and the authority of the court.
“Anyone who knows me understands that I respect the rule of law and established hierarchies. In any organization, hierarchy is essential, and in Nigeria, the Supreme Court stands at the top of our judicial hierarchy.
“We must accept that when the Supreme Court speaks, regardless of our personal opinions, compliance is mandatory. We ought to be a nation governed by law and order. We cannot customize situations to ease our discomfort, whether it be for Chief Edozie Njoku, Chief Henry Okechukwu, or anyone else. We must adhere to the system,” he stated.
Njoku emphasized that as democrats, he and his ousted executive members are committed to promoting national unity.
“We will do everything within our means to contribute to the peace of our nation, Nigeria. But let me assure you, the voice of the people cannot be silenced. In the upcoming elections, the people of Anambra State will make their will heard, loudly and clearly,” he declared.
He warned that chaos would ensue if citizens began selectively obeying court rulings.
“Ultimately, the Supreme Court has spoken, and I have faith in the Chief Justice of Nigeria, who has repeatedly emphasized the need for integrity within the judiciary. I will not obstruct progress. I refuse to contribute to the pressure faced by those striving to preserve the judiciary during these critical times,” Njoku asserted.
He praised the Supreme Court and its justices for making just decisions throughout this process and thanked the people of Anambra for their calm acceptance of the court’s ruling, affirming the necessity of concluding ongoing litigations.
“I’m pleased the Supreme Court acknowledged that this is an issue of internal party democracy. While people may pursue their agendas, they cannot alter grassroots realities. Ultimately, the grassroots will determine their leaders. Anambra will surely have its say,” Njoku concluded.
He also extended his appreciation to INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, despite the legal battles his faction had waged against him.
