The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially recognized Sylvester Ezeokenwa as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). This decision aligns with the Supreme Court's ruling on November 27, 2024, which resolved the prolonged leadership crisis within the party.
Professor Mahmood Yakubu, INEC Chairman, stated that the commission’s decision reflects its commitment to upholding the rule of law. In a statement issued by Sam Olumekun, INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, the restoration of Ezeokenwa’s name has already been updated on the commission’s official website.
The statement read:
“The Commission met today, Tuesday, December 17, 2024, and among other issues, deliberated on the leadership matter within the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), which has been the subject of extensive litigation.
“We have received the Supreme Court judgement in Appeal No. SC/CV/824/2024, APGA & ANOR vs OYE & ORS, delivered on November 27, 2024. The apex court recognizes Barr. Sylvester (Sly) Ezeokenwa as the legitimate Chairman of APGA.
“In compliance with this judgement, INEC has restored Barr. Ezeokenwa as the Chairman of the party and updated his name on our website accordingly.”
The Supreme Court’s five-member panel, led by Justice Stephen Adah, clarified in its ruling that the claims by Edozie Njoku to APGA’s chairmanship were unfounded. Justice Adah explained that the 2021 judgement in question provided declaratory reliefs but did not include any executory orders that could be enforced.
