RismadarVoice Reporters
October 29, 2026
Former Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha, has welcomed the Federal High Court judgment recognising him as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Imo West Senatorial District in the 2027 general elections, describing the ruling as a victory for democracy, the judiciary and constitutional governance.
Okorocha reacted on Thursday, October 29, 2026, through a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Sam Onwuemodo, following the court’s decision nullifying the nomination of incumbent Governor Hope Uzodimma.
Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled that evidence presented before the court established that Okorocha, rather than Uzodimma, won the APC senatorial primary conducted on May 18, 2026.
The court consequently directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognise Okorocha as the party’s candidate for the January 16, 2027 senatorial election.
It also ordered the APC to submit Okorocha’s name to the electoral commission and restrained Uzodimma from presenting himself as the party’s candidate.
Reacting to the judgment, Okorocha commended the judiciary for what he described as an important demonstration of constitutional justice.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he considered an enabling environment for judicial independence and institutional development.
The former governor also thanked the national leadership of the APC for allowing party members to pursue their political aspirations and constitutional rights through lawful processes.
Okorocha acknowledged the support of residents of Imo State, particularly those from Imo West Senatorial District, expressing gratitude for their prayers and encouragement throughout the legal proceedings.
He equally commended Uzodimma for participating in the judicial process as one of the respondents in the case.
However, the Imo State chapter of the APC maintained that Uzodimma remained its candidate, insisting that he emerged victorious during the party’s primary election.
The party’s spokesperson, Jones Onwuasoanya, said its legal department would examine the judgment before determining further action.
Although the judgment directs INEC to recognise Okorocha, the dispute could continue through the appellate courts if the decision is challenged.
The development marks another significant chapter in the political rivalry between the two former allies as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.
