Rivers APC Tussle: What Court Judgement Means For Both Parties

It is essential to adhere to the court’s judgment, regardless of its correctness. Only a higher court has the authority to overturn the decision. Currently, Chief Emeka Beke serves as the Chairman of Rivers State APC

Acting Caretaker Chairman, Chief Tony Okocha, is free to seek redress from the Appeal Court. The outcome may hinge on whether a stay of execution is granted based on whether Justice Aprioku’s ruling at the Rivers State High Court is Declaratory or Consequential. This will determine the temporary occupant of the position until a higher court rules.

Unverified reports suggest that Governor Sim Fubara may have supported the Amaechi faction of the APC led by Beke to secure victory at the State High Court. While this remains unconfirmed, it is plausible given Okocha’s history of opposition to Fubara’s administration since the fallout between the governor and his estranged mentor, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the FCT.

The fate of the judgment rests on the decisions of the Appellate Courts in the upcoming weeks or months. Presently, it appears that the APC plans to nominate candidates for the upcoming Local Government Elections on October 5, 2024, unless legally prohibited. The selection process for APC candidates and their ability to meet election deadlines under constitutional and electoral regulations will be intriguing to observe, especially amid potential internal party challenges.

The scheduled Local Government election has encountered obstacles due to legal opposition by the PDP, which is firmly backed by Wike. The Governor and his allies abstained from the Ward and Local Government Congresses, fueling speculation that he might utilize the APP platform to field candidates for the Council elections. The unfolding political complexities will determine how he navigates this situation.
Currently, he enjoys the backing of the Caretaker Chairmen, whom the Supreme Court deemed illegal. Despite this, they continue to access federal allocations totaling billions of naira and have proceeded to empower people at the grassroots, a subtle campaign strategy in preparation for the council elections.

Recall that the issue of the council election is also a matter before the Courts as the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule and co have challenged the propriety of the scheduled elections.

In the light of these events, it is expedient that all parties respect the judgements of the Courts!