The Imo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has reaffirmed Governor Hope Uzodimma as its candidate for the Imo West Senatorial District in the 2027 general elections, despite a Federal High Court judgment recognising former governor Rochas Okorocha as the winner of the party’s primary election.
The party described the ruling delivered by Justice Obiora Egwuatu in Abuja on Thursday, October 29, 2026, as troubling, arguing that it raises serious concerns about constitutional provisions, judicial precedents and the assessment of evidence presented before the court.
In a statement issued by its State Chairman, Austin Onyedebelu, the APC expressed reservations about the court’s decision, particularly regarding the timing of the suit and the authenticity of documents relied upon by the plaintiff.
The party argued that the action instituted by Okorocha was filed outside the constitutionally stipulated period for pre-election disputes.
Citing Section 285(9) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, the APC maintained that such matters must be instituted within 14 days of the occurrence of the event being challenged.
It noted that the APC primary election for Imo West Senatorial District was conducted on May 18, 2026, while Okorocha reportedly approached the court on August 13, 2026.
According to the party, the timing of the suit raises fundamental questions about whether the court had the requisite jurisdiction to entertain the matter.
The APC also questioned the court’s consideration of documents tendered in support of Okorocha’s case, claiming that both the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the party had disputed their authenticity and origin.
It alleged that INEC maintained during the proceedings that the documents were neither in its custody nor certified by the commission, adding that the electoral body reportedly disowned the stamp and signature appearing on them.
Similarly, the party said the APC maintained that the documents did not originate from its recognised organs and were not part of its official records.
It argued that the objections raised by the two institutions required thorough judicial examination, particularly given the significance of the documents to the outcome of the pre-election dispute.
The party further faulted the court’s reported description of INEC’s position as an afterthought, insisting that the commission’s objections, alongside those of the APC and its relevant directorate, deserved detailed consideration.
It questioned the evidential basis for the judgment, arguing that where both the electoral umpire and the political party dispute the authenticity of documents presented in court, their objections must be carefully evaluated.
The APC, however, acknowledged the judiciary’s authority to assess evidence but maintained that such powers must be exercised in accordance with constitutional provisions, established legal principles and the right to fair hearing.
It stressed that public confidence in the administration of justice depends not only on the outcome of judicial proceedings but also on the transparency and fairness of the process.
The party said it would conduct a comprehensive review of the judgment before deciding on the appropriate legal steps, assuring its supporters that it would pursue all lawful avenues to challenge the decision.
Reaffirming its position, the APC insisted that Uzodimma validly won the party’s Imo West Senatorial District primary conducted on May 18, 2026, and remained its authentic candidate for the 2027 elections.
