Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has denied any involvement in the recent court ruling that removed former Governor Hope Uzodimma from the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidacy list and instead recognised former Governor Rochas Okorocha as the party’s candidate.
The judgment, issued by a Nigerian court, overturned the APC’s decision to nominate Uzodimma for the 2023 gubernatorial election and awarded the ticket to Okorocha. The ruling has sparked controversy within the party and among voters in the state.
In a statement released to the press, Wike said, “I have no link to judgment favouring Okorocha over Uzodimma.” He added that he had not participated in any discussions or decisions related to the nomination process.
Wike’s comments come as the APC faces scrutiny over its internal selection procedures. The party’s executive committee had previously confirmed Uzodimma’s candidacy, a move that was later challenged in court.
Political observers note that the ruling could affect the APC’s standing in the upcoming election, but Wike maintains that his role is limited to his duties as FCT Minister and does not extend to party nomination matters.
<small>Source: Punch Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>