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Enugu 2023: The Futility of Edeoga’s Appeal Court Victory

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By Zeb Okeke

Despite the Court of Appeal judgement, which on Friday overturned an earlier ruling of an Abuja Federal High Court that annulled the August 2022 primary election that handed Hon. Chijioke Edeoga the governorship ticket of the Labour Party in Enugu and ordered a rerun, insightful pundits know that nothing has really changed for the former two-time commissioner in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) administration of Dr. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. If anything, the judgment has only denied an already fatigued Edeoga an honourable exit from a doomed gubernatorial odyssey.

Before the Court of Appeal judgement, rumours were thick that Edeoga was seriously considering throwing in the towel. Though it is still in the realm of rumour, there is hardly any smoke without fire. But whether it is true or not, what is not in doubt is that from the Olympian heights of a governor-in-waiting and heir apparent, as Edeoga and his foot soldiers made people believe before the PDP primary election, his gubernatorial bid had since lost steam.

For instance, Edeoga is just trying to recover from the ridicule by social media users following the viral video of him touting himself as “candidate” to the presidential flag bearer of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, who gave him a cold shoulder. It was an embarrassing video as he desperately sought Obi’s attention and a photo opportunity with the presidential hopeful during the 70th birthday celebration of former President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Nnia Nwodo, in December.

Even if that incident has come and gone, the deeper meanings are not lost on the politically informed. It is true that Obi, who is running on the strength of anti-old order or anti-establishment, tactfully tried to avoid being seen as promoting the product of a process already invalidated by a court of law as of then. But more important is that he didn’t want to be caught in the crossfire of the local contention between Edeoga and Odengene camps. Enugu Labour Party is clearly factionalised into Edeoga and Capt. Evarest Nnaji (Odengene) camps. Besides the lawsuit instituted by Nnaji, the division showed during the “Charity Begins at Home” rally of 28th August 2022 organised by Odengene at the Shoprite Enugu premises to mobilise support for Obi’s presidential bid. The event ended in fiasco as the Edeoga and Odengene camps caused scenes even in the presence of the National Secretary of the party, Alhaji Umar Farouk. Obi understands that identifying openly with Edeoga in the midst of the local division could cost him a lot, as he needs the support of both camps.

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Also, Obi currently enjoys a good following in Enugu where the faceoff between PDP’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, and the G5 governors has taken life out of PDP’s presidential drive in the five affected states. Obi is still hopeful that some or all the five governors could work for him or at worst, stay neutral during the presidential election. Importantly, considering that Edeoga, even if the courts restore him as the candidate, lacks the war chest, followership, and charisma to disrupt the system against the PDP, let alone the capacity to dislodge the behemoth; and considering that the Labour Party is polarised in Enugu already, it was only political smartness on Obi’s part to avoid a head-on collision with the more entrenched, ‘loaded’ and sophisticated political system in Enugu where the PDP is the ruling party. Apparently, Edeoga is not going to get that kind of support from Obi as he had erroneously taught because Obi would also want to win his own election first.

Again, Edeoga’s decision to reduce his governorship ambition to a project of Enugu North/old Nsukka zone has hurt his aspiration badly. Isi-Uzo LGA, where Edeoga hails from was part of old Nsukka zone, but currently in Enugu East zone. But whereas the popular opinion is that power should rotate to Enugu East predominated by Nkanu in line with the zoning principle, Edeoga has not pretended about the fact that he is running as a candidate of Nsukka zone. He drove the message home by picking a running mate from Enugu West.

Meanwhile, despite the Court of Appeal judgement, chances are that Nnaji (Odenge) could still have the last laugh at the Supreme Court, as the issues he raised are germane. His Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1422/2022 challenged Edeoga’s emergence as the Labour Party governorship candidate based on his alleged unlawful exclusion from the process contrary to the extant provisions of the Electoral Act 2022. Truth is that exclusion is a major factor in the adjudication of primary election matters. It is doubtful that his non-participation in the said primary election and upon which the honourable appellate court justices relied so much to upturn the trial court’s judgement applies in this instance because there is yet no evidence to show that the leadership of the party advertised the said primary in the media or wrote Odengene to inform him of the date, time and venue of the said primary election. And that is the crux of Odengene’s suit.

There is even the contention that the trial or lower court overreached itself and should not have given the Labour Party an opportunity to conduct another primary to field a governorship candidate in Enugu in the 2023 general elections. The Electoral Act is deliberate and clear that every party must conclude its primary election not later than 150 days to the governorship election. But the period from the date of the court judgment on November 9, 2022 to the governorship election scheduled to take place on March 11, 2023, is about 122 days. Therefore, having not complied with the relevant Sections of the Electoral Act 2022, and consequent upon the provisions of Section 84 (13) of the Act, does Labour Party still have the right to conduct another primary to field a governorship candidate as ordered by the lower court?

Clearly, however we look at it, the Court of Appeal is not the final court in this matter and uncertainties will persist in the Edeoga and Enugu Labour Party until the Supreme Court adjudicates the matter.

So, realistically speaking, the uncertainties surrounding the candidacy of Enugu Labour Party’s gubernatorial ticket and even the party’s participation in that election, coupled with the internal crisis in Enugu Labour Party, the trust deficit created by Edeoga’s defection to the Labour Party despite earlier signing an MOU with other PDP governorship aspirants of Enugu East Senatorial zone to support any among them endorsed by Governor Ugwuanyi, his geopolitical misalignment, and the fact that he is not showing any promises or the needed capacity to dislodge the PDP, have combined to take the wind off his governorship sail.

For instance, elections cost good money everywhere in the world. But the above-named factors have combined to deny Edeoga the needed war chest, as those he was counting on to bankroll his governorship project have backtracked. Politicians and businessmen are no Father Christmas and nobody wants to invest his money in a bad market that the Edeoga governorship run has become. Apart from clear prospects of losing their money, supporting a losing candidate against the eventual winner comes with collateral political and economic consequences.

So, while Edeoga puts a façade of hope and his supporters jubilate over the Appeal Court judgment, things are not truly looking up for him. In fact, things are going south for him and he knows it. His outdoor and radio advertising are few and far between. He is not campaigning around the state like his PDP counterpart. In fact, he is yet to launch a manifesto and recently confessed to the Enugu branch of the Nigerian Bar Association that he had none. He knows deep down his heart that even if he finally flies the Labour Party’s gubernatorial flag, he could only wobble through the 2023 election to save face, but certainly not to win. When the chronicles of the Enugu 2023 general election is written, it would likely be written of him: How are supposed heirs apparent fallen and political ambitions perished.

Okeke is an Enugu-based analyst

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2027: ‘Peter Obi must not die’ — Igbo Group warns of catastrophic consequences

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Peter Obi, Presidential candidate of NDC
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Njiko Igbo Forum, an affiliate of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has issued a stern warning ahead of the 2027 general elections, cautioning that it will be catastrophic should anything happen to Mr Peter Obi.

It could be recalled that Obi, on Wednesday, raised the alarm that his life was under threat.

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, raised fears that he may not be alive in 2027 to be part of the election.

However, in a statement issued on Thursday, Rev Dr Okechukwu Christopher Obioha, Leader, Njiko Igbo Forum Nigeria, he warned that should anything happen to Obi or he was not in the ballot, the reaction and result would be very catastrophic.

Obioha said the caution was part of the decision taken during an emergency meeting held today, Thursday, in Enugu.

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The Forum said, “That we have seen the viral video made by His Excellency, Mr Peter Gregory Obi, speaking on a number of issues, he expressed serious concern that his life is in danger.

“For him to have gone to the extent of saying he might not be alive before the 16th of January 2027, speaks volumes both in our polity and in the country at large.

“We have seen him in the past, spoke about the federal government trying to frustrate and targeting him not to be in the ballot.

“We have also observed over a period of time that the presidency or the federal government led by President Tinubu does not want Peter Obi to be in the ballot.”

While drawing the attention of the Presidency, Nigeria and the world to those allegations, Njiko Igbo Forum declared that “if anything happens to Mr Peter Gregory Obi or finally his name is not in the ballot for the 16th January, 2026 presidential election, the reaction and result will be very catastrophic and may adversely affect the continued unity in diversity of this country Nigeria.”

It further stated that the Igbo had been very quiet, pushed to the wall, segregated against, marked out everywhere, chased about and even tried to take their possessions.

Njiko Igbo Forum cautioned that keeping quiet does not mean the Igbo are cowards.

It said the ruling government should not forget that for any democracy to thrive, there must be a viral opposition in the polity.

“There is no reason, for what we have seen in the process or polity in trailing Peter Obi and going to an extent of chasing him through all the political parties and now wanting to kill him.

“This outcry by Mr Peter Gregory Obi, must not be taken lightly and request as a matter of urgent National importance, that an urgent investigation panel be constituted to verify Mr Peter Obi’s allegations.

“We are strongly stating again that, nothing should happen to Mr Peter Gregory Obi.

“Yes, Chief Awolowo said, before Nigeria he was of the Yoruba Nation. The same way we are saying before Peter Obi is of Nigeria, he is of the Igbo.

“Mr Peter Gregory Obi will live and become the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2027,” it declared.

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I might not be alive to contest in 2027 – Peter Obi raises alarm over threats to his life

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Peter Obi not arrested by DSS – Aide
Peter Obi, NDC Presidential candidate
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Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Mr Peter Obi, has cried out over alleged threat to his life.

Obi, who is a major contender ahead of the 2027 presidential election said he might not be alive to participate in the election.

According to him, there is obvious attack on everything that had to do with him, including his life.

The former Anambra state governor made the allegation during a podcast with Chude Jideonwo.

“The way they are going now I might not be alive,  I’m telling you every single thing I do for a living this government is frustrating it deliberately so.

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“Everything, so there’s even a possibility if they have opportunity I will not be alive. I get frustrations every day because you do things that may think it may be normal it is not normal they won’t come directly and say oh we are doing this but you could see their hand in eventually everything.

“The government is attacking everybody, I am being attacked personally even to provide me with things I am entitled to, not at all,” he said.

He recalled how his vehicle was clamped down at the airport while he was right there, whereas other vehicles lined up on the same spot were untouched.

Obi further that stated that even close associates were beginning to avoid him over fear of government clampdown.

He disclosed that friends now send him invitations for occasions but tell him not to bother attending.

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Voters reward performance as APC sweeps Ekiti, dominates Bye-Elections nationwide — Yilwatda

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Professor Nentawe Yilwatda
Professor Nentawe Yilwatda
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The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has described the resounding victory of Governor Biodun Oyebanji in the Ekiti State Governorship Election and the party’s impressive performance in the recent bye-elections across the country as a clear vote of confidence in the APC, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the ongoing reforms being implemented to reposition Nigeria for sustainable growth and prosperity.

Prof. Yilwatda stated that the outcome of the elections demonstrates that Nigerians are able to distinguish between temporary economic challenges associated with reforms and the long-term benefits of responsible governance, economic restructuring, infrastructure development and institutional renewal being championed by the APC at both federal and state levels.

According to the National Chairman:

“The overwhelming victory recorded by our great party in Ekiti State and our remarkable success in the bye-elections across the country represent a powerful endorsement of the APC’s governance philosophy. These results affirm that Nigerians appreciate leadership that prioritises development, accountability, stability and the welfare of the people.”

“The people of Ekiti State have once again demonstrated that performance remains the most potent campaign message in democratic politics. Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s resounding re-election is a reward for visionary leadership, inclusive governance, prudent management of resources and visible developmental achievements across the state.”

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Governor Oyebanji of the APC was declared winner of the Ekiti Governorship Election after securing a commanding victory across the state, reaffirming the confidence of the electorate in his administration and the APC’s developmental agenda. The party also recorded significant victories in five of the six bye-elections conducted across various states of the federation.

Prof. Yilwatda, in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, Abimbola Tooki, noted that the Ekiti result has further strengthened the APC’s narrative that performance-based governance remains electorally rewarding, even amid difficult economic transitions.

“The Ekiti election has become a national reference point. It confirms that when governments deliver tangible results in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, youth empowerment, security and social development, citizens respond with renewed trust and overwhelming electoral support.”

“This victory sends a clear message that governance, not propaganda, remains the most effective route to political legitimacy. The people of Ekiti have spoken loudly and clearly in support of continuity, stability and progress.”

The APC National Chairman described Ekiti State under Governor Oyebanji as one of the most compelling governance success stories in contemporary Nigeria, citing sustained investments in road infrastructure, rural development, human capital advancement, healthcare delivery, agricultural productivity, workers’ welfare and ease of doing business.

He said the administration has successfully built broad-based political consensus while maintaining a strong focus on development outcomes, thereby creating an environment of stability and accelerated progress.

“Ekiti today stands as a shining example of how APC governments are translating public trust into measurable development outcomes. The state’s progress under Governor Oyebanji provides a practical demonstration of our party’s commitment to people-centred governance.”

Prof. Yilwatda further stated that the election outcomes should be viewed within the broader national context of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reform agenda, which is gradually laying the foundation for a more resilient, productive and globally competitive Nigerian economy.

“Despite inheriting deep structural challenges, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated courage and vision in implementing reforms that are necessary for Nigeria’s long-term prosperity. The confidence reposed in our party by voters across the country indicates growing public understanding and appreciation of these reforms and their future benefits.”
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“These victories are therefore not only electoral successes; they are validations of a governing philosophy anchored on bold leadership, responsible decision-making and sustainable development.”

The National Chairman congratulated President Tinubu, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, APC leaders and members in Ekiti State and across the federation, as well as all candidates who emerged victorious in the bye-elections.

He also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and the people of Ekiti State for the peaceful conduct of the election.

Prof. Yilwatda assured Nigerians that the APC would remain focused on delivering good governance at all levels and deepening democratic dividends for citizens across the country.

“Our message to Nigerians is simple: we have heard your voices, we appreciate your confidence and we shall continue to justify the trust you have placed in our party through impactful governance, economic renewal and inclusive national development.”

“The APC remains committed to building a stronger, more prosperous and more united Nigeria. The victories recorded in Ekiti and the bye-elections reinforce our resolve to work even harder in service to the Nigerian people.”

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