In a landmark decision, Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reinstated Barrister Sylvester Ezeokenwa as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
The ruling comes after a long-standing legal battle that saw the matter taken to the country’s highest court. On November 27, 2024, the Supreme Court delivered its judgment, affirming Ezeokenwa’s position as the rightful leader of the party.
INEC made the announcement on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, confirming that it had acted in accordance with the Supreme Court’s directive. A statement from INEC, signed by National Commissioner Sam Olumekun, stated that the Commission was fully compliant with the court’s decision.
“The Commission has been served with the judgement of the Supreme Court with Appeal No. SC/CV/824/2024 APGA & ANOR vs OYE & ORS, delivered on 27th November 2024 recognising Barr. Sylvester (Sly) Ezeokenwa as the Chairman of the party,” the statement read.
Ezeokenwa’s reinstatement marks the end of a fierce leadership dispute within APGA, which had led to confusion and divisions in the party. The dispute began after internal party disagreements about the leadership direction of APGA, culminating in a legal battle over who had the legitimate authority to lead.
The Supreme Court’s ruling was seen as a final resolution to the power struggle that had plagued APGA, with supporters of Ezeokenwa celebrating the decision as a victory for democracy and justice.
“I am humbled by the Supreme Court’s decision,” Ezeokenwa said in a statement. “This is not just a personal victory but a victory for the integrity of the All Progressives Grand Alliance. We will continue our efforts to strengthen the party and work for the people of Nigeria.”
The legal tussle began when a faction of the party, led by Victor Oye, challenged Ezeokenwa’s leadership, arguing that he was not the rightful chairman. This challenge led to a series of legal actions, including a previous decision by the Court of Appeal. However, the Supreme Court’s ruling on November 27 put an end to the dispute, confirming Ezeokenwa’s leadership.
In response to the ruling, INEC emphasized that it had taken the necessary steps to implement the judgment. “In compliance with the judgement of the apex court, the Commission has restored Barr. Ezeokenwa as the Chairman of APGA and restored his name on our website accordingly,” the INEC statement clarified.
The reinstatement of Ezeokenwa is expected to bring some level of stability to APGA as it moves forward. With the leadership dispute behind them, the party can now focus on its political agenda, particularly as the 2024 elections draw closer.
The leadership crisis had not only caused internal turmoil within APGA but had also raised concerns about the party’s ability to effectively challenge other political forces in the upcoming elections. Now, with Ezeokenwa’s leadership re-established, it remains to be seen how the party will regain its footing on the national stage.
The APGA, which has historically played a significant role in Nigerian politics, especially in the southeastern region, faces the challenge of strengthening its influence and preparing for future electoral battles. Ezeokenwa, who is a legal practitioner, had been a key figure in the party’s resurgence before the legal battles caused a setback.
While some party members had expressed concerns over the prolonged leadership dispute, many are now hopeful that the Supreme Court ruling and Ezeokenwa’s return will bring the party back together. The decision could also set a precedent for resolving similar leadership crises within Nigerian political parties.
“It’s a good day for democracy,” said an APGA supporter who spoke on condition of anonymity. “The party can now move forward, focus on the future, and take its rightful place in Nigerian politics.”
For INEC, the decision to reinstate Ezeokenwa was seen as a necessary step to ensure that the party operates in accordance with the law and constitutional principles. As the electoral body responsible for overseeing the integrity of the country’s political process, INEC’s adherence to the Supreme Court ruling further highlights its commitment to upholding the rule of law.