A political earthquake hit Imo State on Thursday as the Federal High Court in Abuja sacked Governor Hope Uzodimma as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress for Imo West Senatorial District.
The court in a bombshell judgment that stunned the APC camp, declared former Governor Rochas Okorocha as the rightful flag bearer for the January 16, 2027 poll.
Judge Says Evidence Exposed Sham Primary
Delivering judgment, Justice Obiora Egwuatu held that Uzodimma did not win the APC primary held on May 18.
The judge said evidence before the court, including the report of the Independent National Electoral Commission which monitored the exercise, proved the primary was not won by the sitting Governor.
Okorocha Was The Real Winner
Justice Egwuatu ruled that it was Senator Rochas Okorocha who scored the highest number of lawful votes at the primary and ought to have been nominated.
He therefore nullified Uzodimma’s nomination and held that Okorocha remains the authentic candidate.
Court Orders INEC, Bars Uzodimma
In a sweeping order, the court directed INEC to immediately recognise, publish and reflect Okorocha’s name as the APC candidate for Imo West.
The judge also issued a restraining order barring Governor Uzodimma from parading himself, campaigning or presenting himself as the party’s candidate for the senatorial contest.
The judgment has set the stage for a fresh battle in Imo APC ahead of the 2027 election.
