By Milcah Tanimu

The Federal High Court in Abuja has rejected a motion ex-parte filed by the Alhaji Lamidi Apapa-led faction of the Labour Party (LP) seeking to prevent Athan Achonu from being the governorship candidate in Saturday’s election in Imo. The faction aimed to have Chief Joseph Ukaegbu recognized as the validly elected standard-bearer of the party.

Justice Inyang Ekwo declined the motion’s prayer for an interim injunction and directed the plaintiffs to put the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on notice. The judge stated that he would not grant the application immediately, emphasizing the need for INEC to be informed and given the opportunity to respond.

The plaintiffs, including LP and members of the Alhaji Apapa-led faction, had sought an interim injunction restraining INEC from recognizing any other person claiming the LP gubernatorial ticket in the Imo governorship election, aside from Ukaegbu. They also requested an order compelling INEC to recognize Ukaegbu as the LP governorship candidate in Imo.

The court adjourned the matter until Friday, providing time for INEC to respond and show cause. The LP faction, led by Alhaji Apapa, had conducted primaries on April 16, declaring Ukaegbu as their candidate for the Imo governorship election.