More Troubles for Soludo Reelection Bid as INEC Reportedly Recognizes Edozie Njoku APGA Faction

In a dramatic twist to the ongoing leadership crisis within the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially recognized Chief Edozie Njoku as the legitimate National Chairman of the party. This development casts a shadow over the reelection prospects of Governor Charles Soludo, who had previously aligned with the faction led by Barrister Sylvester Ezeokenwa.

The leadership dispute, which has spanned over six years, has navigated through various levels of the judiciary, culminating in a series of judgments. The courts, including the Supreme Court, have invalidated all actions taken by the faction led by Chief Victor Oye, declaring them “illegal, null and of no effect whatsoever.”

Despite these rulings, INEC had initially refused to acknowledge Chief Njoku’s chairmanship, continuing instead to recognize Barrister Ezeokenwa. However, a significant development occurred with a Court of Appeal ruling on June 28, 2024, which ordered the committal to prison of both the INEC Chairman and Victor Oye for non-compliance with an earlier court order from May 2023. This order had prohibited Oye from conducting any party activities, including primary elections and conventions.

Following the appellate court’s decision, sources close to Chief Njoku confirmed that INEC has now communicated with him, acknowledging his position as the authentic chairman of APGA. This recognition could have serious implications for Governor Soludo’s reelection campaign, as his association with the Ezeokenwa faction may undermine his legitimacy within the party.

The resolution of this leadership crisis is crucial not only for the stability of APGA but also for the political landscape in Anambra State as the election approaches. Governor Soludo, who has relied on the support of the Ezeokenwa-led faction, may now face significant challenges in consolidating his base and securing the party’s nomination for a second term.

As the situation unfolds, the realignment within APGA and the response from Governor Soludo’s camp will be closely monitored.