Tribunal: How Enugu LP Rep, Sunday Umeha, Lost His Seat to PDP’s Festus Uzor

Sunday Umeha, a prominent member of the Labour Party (LP) representing the Udi/Ezeagu Federal Constituency of Enugu State, has been stripped of his seat in favor of Festus Uzor from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). This verdict was delivered by the National Assembly Elections Petitions Tribunal during its session in Enugu on Tuesday.

The tribunal, presided over by Justice A.M. Abubakar, ruled that Umeha failed to adhere to the proper procedures when switching parties. According to the tribunal’s findings, Umeha did not adequately resign from the PDP before accepting the LP’s ticket for the constituency’s representative position.

Justice Abubakar, during the announcement of the decision, emphasized that the resignation letter presented by Umeha was signed by an individual who was no longer a leader within the PDP. This raised concerns about the authenticity of Umeha’s resignation and his eligibility to contest the election under a different party banner.

As a result of this ruling, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been directed by the tribunal to issue a fresh certificate of return to Festus Uzor, officially recognizing him as the duly elected representative of the Udi/Ezeagu Federal Constituency. This verdict has ignited discussions and debates in Enugu State, as political observers closely monitor its implications on the political landscape.