Okorocha Warns Uzodimma Over Aides' Attacks on Judiciary

Rochas Okorocha, the former Imo State governor, has called on his successor Hope Uzodimma to rein in his aides from criticizing the judiciary following a Federal High Court decision that favored Okorocha in a dispute over the All Progressives Congress candidacy for Imo West Senatorial District in 2027. Justice Obiora Egwuatu delivered the ruling on October 29, declaring Okorocha the legitimate winner of the party's May 18 senatorial primary and ordering the Independent National Electoral Commission to reflect this change in its records.

According to Okorocha's position, Uzodimma and his team should direct their energies toward filing an appeal at higher courts rather than launching verbal attacks against judicial officers. Okorocha specifically referenced comments made by individuals within Uzodimma's administration, including his chief of staff, who had characterized aspects of the judgment negatively.

The former governor presented this as a matter of institutional respect and proper legal process. The court's decision effectively removed Uzodimma's name from INEC's list of candidates for the Imo West seat and substituted Okorocha's name in his place.

This outcome emerged from the May 18 primary contest, which had generated disputes about its legitimacy and conduct that ultimately reached the federal court system. The judgment represents a significant reversal for the sitting governor in a high-profile political battle within Nigeria's ruling party.

Okorocha's public counsel to Uzodimma suggests an attempt to de-escalate tensions through direct communication, though he did not shy away from criticism of how his successor's camp had responded to the adverse ruling. The situation underscores ongoing internal divisions within Imo's APC structure as the 2027 election cycle progresses.

Uzodimma's administration has not issued a formal response to Okorocha's latest remarks at the time of reporting.