By George Mgbeleke
Prominent Abia state Chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC),Hon Daniel Okeke has applauded the present Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkiruka Onyejiocha for her victory at the National Assembly election petition tribunal sitting in Umuahia, Abia State.
Onyejeocha a former Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives and candidate of the APC in 2023 Isiukwuato/ Umunneochi federal constituency polls had petitioned the tribunal to challenge the election victory of the incumbent member representing the zone at the lower Chambers, Amobi Ogah of the Labour Party with seven reliefs as contained in her petition.
Convinced by her arguments, the Tribunal on Wednesday in its Judgment nullified the election of Hon Ogah and declared Nkeiruka as the winner of the Isiukwuato/ Umunneochi federal constituency election.
The tribunal had ruled that the emergence and victory of Ogah did not comply with the Electoral Act and subsequently ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to withdraw the certificate of return given to Ogah and issue the same to the Petitioner, Hon. Onyejeocha.
Reacting to the ruling, Okeke in a statement released on Wednesday night following the declaration, hailed the tribunal for ”validating the desires of the constituents.
Okeke who was also the candidate of the APC in the Ohafia/Arochukwu House of Representatives election said that the verdict marks a significant chapter in the Political career of Onyejeocha.
While commending the Judges, Okeke lauded Onyejeocha for her dedication in pursuing her case to its logical conclusion, describing the ruling as one which coincides with the yearnings of her constituents.
Okeke celebrated Onyejeocha ;”Congratulations to Hon. (Brr.) Nkeiruka Onyejeocha PhD OON, as we celebrate your noteworthy victory in the House Representatives election Tribunal verdict for the Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency.
“Your relentless devotion, unwavering allegiance, and tireless grinds have not only propelled you to this incredible triumph but have also won the hearts and trust of your constituents. This resounding victory is a testament to your vision and the people’s belief in your ability to represent their interests effectively.
“May your voyage ahead will be filled with success, fulfillment, and the realization of your goals for the betterment of Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency and our beloved nation as a whole.
The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, had declared the Labour Party candidate, Amobi Ogah as the winner of the Isuikwuato/Umunneochi federal constituency election with a total of 11,769 votes against Onyejiocha who the commission said scored a total of 8,752 votes.
Delivering judgement in the petition tagged EPT/AB/HR/8/2023 on Wednesday in Umuahia, the three-man panel said Ogah’s emergence as LP candidate did not comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act.
The tribunal agreed with the petitioner that there were over voting in some electoral units in favour of Amobi Ogah and his LP, while her actual votes were not declared by INEC.
The tribunal also agreed with the petitioner that there were over voting in some electoral units in favour of Amobi Ogah and his LP, while her actual votes were not declared by INEC.
After subtracting the alleged inflated figures, the tribunal declared that Onyejiocha scored 11,976 votes,while Amobi Ogah scored 9,736 votes.
Amobi Ogah is the younger brother of Uche Ogah, a former minister of state for mines and steel development.
Onyejeocha, a veteran politician, had previously served as the deputy whip in the 9th House of Representatives and had occupied the seat for 16 years, since 2007.
