Court Nullifies Uzodinma’s APC Senatorial Candidacy, Declares Okorocha Winner of Imo West Primary

The Federal High Court in Abuja has nullified the emergence of Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Imo West Senatorial District election scheduled for January 16, 2027.

In a judgment delivered on Thursday, Justice Obiora Egwuatu ruled that the evidence before the court established that Uzodinma was not the valid winner of the APC senatorial primary conducted in the district on May 18 and monitored by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The court held that former Imo State governor and Senator, Rochas Okorocha, secured the highest number of votes in the primary election and was therefore entitled to the party’s nomination for the senatorial contest.

Court Orders INEC to Recognise Okorocha

Consequently, Justice Egwuatu directed INEC to recognise Okorocha and publish his name as the authentic APC candidate for the Imo West Senatorial District election.

The court also barred Uzodinma from presenting himself as the APC candidate for the contest, effectively invalidating his emergence as the party’s nominee.

The ruling places Okorocha in line to represent the APC in the January 2027 senatorial election, subject to any further legal developments.

Legal Battle Over APC Ticket

The judgment centres on the conduct and outcome of the APC primary held in Imo West on May 18. According to the court, the evidence presented established that Okorocha, rather than Uzodinma, obtained the highest number of votes cast.

The decision could have significant implications for the APC’s preparations for the election, given Uzodinma’s position as the sitting governor of Imo State and Okorocha’s status as a former governor and senator.

The ruling also underscores the role of the courts in resolving disputes over party primaries and determining which aspirant is entitled to a party’s nomination.

Further developments, including any appeal against the judgment, could determine the final position of the two politicians ahead of the election.