The former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio, and the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Akwa Ibom State, Mr Akan Udofia, have vowed to appeal court judgments disqualifying them from the 2023 elections.
A court of appeal in Abuja had ordered INEC to delist Akpabio as the APC senatorial candidate for Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District in the 2023 elections, adding that the lower court erred in declaring him as the candidate for the position.
Also, the Federal High Court in Uyo had nullified the APC primary and held that Udofia was not qualified to contest for the governorship ticket of the party.
However, both candidates have kicked against the court judgments.
In a statement he signed, Akpabio wondered why a ruling was made against him in a case he was not part of.
He said, “It is instructive to mention that I was not a party in the said appeal though orders were made against me and my interest.
“I am aware that the Supreme Court of Nigeria has the final say in these matters. I therefore strongly advise my supporters, APC members and all my constituents to remain calm and law-abiding, as they continue their campaigns for the successes of the APC in Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District, Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria at large.”
Udofia, in a statement signed by the Director-General, Akan Udofia Campaign, Chief Don Etim, said the ruling was a conspiracy against his candidacy and a violation of his fundamental human right to association.
“There is no shadow of doubt over his candidacy. We have great confidence in our judiciary and will take immediate steps to appeal this judgement and recover the mandate freely conferred on him by the members of our great party,” he said.
