APC 𝖨𝖭 court 𝖳𝖮 sits over candidacy

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State is embroiled in a contentious issue, with a Federal High Court in Abuja set to commence hearings on a lawsuit filed by Dennis Idahosa. Idahosa claims to be the legitimate governorship candidate of the party and is seeking a court order to prevent the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognizing anyone else as the APC candidate.

This development comes amidst a heated dispute over plans to "import" Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, a governorship aspirant from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), into the APC as a running mate to Senator Monday Okpebholo. The move has sparked intense opposition within the party, with many members expressing concerns about the potential consequences of such a decision.

Justice James Kolawole of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has scheduled the hearing for March 14, 2024, and has directed that the originating process be served on Senator Okpebholo through the Clerk of the National Assembly or an adult person or official secretary at the Senator's office.

Idahosa's lawsuit is predicated on his claim that he won the party's primary election held on February 17, 2024, with a total of 40,453 votes, while Senator Okpebholo scored only 100 votes. Idahosa is seeking a declaration from the court that he is the rightful APC candidate for the Edo governorship election, citing violations of the Electoral Act, APC's constitution, and guidelines for the primaries by the party's leadership.

The party's leadership has been accused of attempting to subvert the democratic process and impose a candidate on the party, a move that has sparked widespread discontent among party members. The situation remains fluid, with party leaders engaged in closed-door meetings to resolve the impasse.

As the crisis deepens, party members and stakeholders are increasingly divided, with some supporting Idahosa's claim and others backing the party leadership's decision. The Edo State chapter of the APC is facing a credibility crisis, with many questioning the party's commitment to democratic principles.

The controversy has also drawn the attention of the national leadership of the APC, with some top officials reportedly intervening to resolve the crisis. However, their efforts have so far yielded little progress, as the factions within the party remain entrenched in their positions.

The legal battle ahead promises to be intense, with both sides expected to present strong arguments. Idahosa's legal team, led by Bode Olanipekun, SAN, is confident of securing a favorable judgment, while the party leadership is determined to defend its decision.

As the clock ticks towards the March 14 hearing, the political landscape in Edo State remains volatile, with many wondering what the outcome of the legal battle will be. One thing is certain, however: the fate of the APC in Edo State hangs in the balance, and the party's ability to resolve this crisis will have far-reaching implications for its future in the state.