By Milcah Tanimu

The dispute over the rightful candidate to represent the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming November 11, 2023 governorship election in Kogi State has taken a new turn as the struggle continues in the Appeal Court. Despite the governorship election committee, led by former Governor Bello Matawalle, submitting its report on the April 14 primaries that saw the emergence of Alhaji Usman Ododo, other contenders remain determined, eagerly awaiting the verdict from the Court of Appeal. Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, rendered a decision on July 12 regarding a lawsuit filed by Senator Smart Adeyemi. The lawsuit contested the selection of Alhaji Usman Ododo as the APC’s governorship candidate. In the ruling (FHC/ABJ/CS/556/23), Justice Omotosho declared that Senator Adeyemi’s claims lacked substance, as he failed to provide evidence supporting his position that Ododo’s election was invalid. The judge emphasized that the responsibility of substantiating claims rested on the applicant and highlighted that the absence of proof was detrimental to Adeyemi’s case. Justice Omotosho acknowledged evidence suggesting that the primary election was conducted with INEC’s oversight, affirming the validity of the process. Justice Omotosho’s ruling was met with dissatisfaction, leading Senator Adeyemi’s legal team to promptly file an appeal with the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal. They argued that the trial judge misinterpreted the law and attempted to provide legal justification for the APC primary in Kogi State. Senator Adeyemi’s legal team also refuted allegations of forgery, asserting that their suit solely focused on the APC’s failure to adhere to its constitution, rules, and guidelines regarding the conduct of primaries. As the dispute continues in the Court of Appeal, the battle over the APC governorship candidacy in Kogi State remains ongoing, leaving the final decision to be determined by the higher court.