Former Governor of Imo State, Senator Rochas Okorocha, has described a landmark Federal High Court judgment confirming him as the authentic All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Imo West Senatorial District as a triumph for the judiciary, democracy, and the Nigerian Constitution.
​The verdict was delivered on Thursday morning, October 29, 2026, at approximately 10:30 AM at Court 10 of the Federal High Court complex in Abuja. Presiding judge Justice Obiora Egwuatu ruled in favor of Okorocha in suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1854/2026, which challenged the recognition of sitting Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, as the APC candidate for the upcoming January 16, 2027 senatorial election. ​
Justice Egwuatu held that evidence submitted showed Okorocha won the APC primary election conducted on May 18, 2026, as monitored and documented by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The court issued an order restraining Governor Uzodimma from parading himself as the party’s candidate and directed the APC and INEC to immediately publish Okorocha’s name for the Imo West seat. ​
Addressing journalists outside the courtroom shortly after the judgment at 11:45 AM, Senator Rochas Okorocha lauded the court’s firm stance against political manipulation. ​”This judgment is a landmark victory for the judiciary, democracy, and the Nigerian Constitution. It demonstrates that justice is not for sale and restores the confidence of the ordinary Nigerian in our legal institutions.
All the court agreed with me, but if they want to appeal, let them appeal, I will tackle them on it.” Senator Rochas Okorocha stated. ​Okorocha also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for fostering an environment where democratic institutions and the judiciary can function without external interference, while thanking the people of Orlu Zone (Imo West) for their steadfast support. ​
Also speaking to reporters at the court premises, lead defense counsel O.J. Aboje, Esq., noted that the court’s detailed findings fully vindicated his client following weeks of media attacks. ​”My client was vindicated today after facing weeks of smear campaigns and unfounded accusations regarding primary election documentation.
The court has once again proven to be the ultimate bastion of truth and justice.” O.J. Aboje said. ​Reacting to the ruling later Thursday afternoon from the party’s state secretariat in Owerri, Imo State APC Publicity Secretary, Cajetan Duke, maintained that the state executive was reviewing the court’s directives while considering its legal options.
Meanwhile, INEC’s legal representative, M.A. Umar, noted during proceedings that the commission would comply with valid directives issued by courts of competent jurisdiction.
