Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, who serves as the representative for Ideato North/South Federal Constituency in Imo State, has expressed his determination to contest the decision to remove him from office as ruled by the election petition tribunal.

This comes in the wake of the Election Petitions Tribunal’s decision for the National and State House of Assembly elections in Imo State, which disqualified Ugochinyere, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing the grounds that he was not a valid candidate for the election.

During an appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show programme on Monday, the lawmaker reaffirmed his strong belief that the Appeal Court will ultimately rectify what he views as an “injustice” that has been done to him. His resolve to challenge the tribunal’s decision underscores his determination to seek a fair resolution to this matter through the judicial process. 

He said, “We are going to the Appeal Court to challenge this judgement which runs against the express provisions of the constitution and other enabling laws and judicial precedent that have been delivered recently.

“I’ll be asking them to reverse this injustice and reinstate the will of our people expressed at the general election that we won by landslide.” 

Ugochinyere elaborated on the situation, highlighting that the National Assembly Election Petition Tribunal Court, which was held in Mararaba, validated the election results of fellow House of Representatives members from Imo State. Notably, these members had their primaries conducted at the same venue.

He expressed his bewilderment at the introduction of new principles, which lacked any established judicial precedent, that seemed to be employed to challenge his victory when his case was brought forward. This inconsistency in treatment has raised questions about the fairness and consistency of the electoral process.

“I have strong confidence in the judiciary and in the Appeal Court, and I hope strongly that this injustice will be reversed by the justices of the Appeal Court,” he emphasised.

Ugochinyere further asserted that he believed Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma was actively working against his interests and political standing. This allegation points to a perceived political rivalry or conflict between the two figures, which may have had an impact on the outcome of the election and subsequent legal proceedings. Such political dynamics can often play a significant role in electoral disputes and their resolution.

He said, “This thing would have been a very easy and peaceful process if not because of the interference of Uzodinma.”