Apugo Heads to Court Over NDC Ticket Dispute After INEC Final List Omission

Apugo Heads to Court Over NDC Ticket Dispute After INEC Final List Omission

Hon. Ikechukwu Martin Apugo has announced plans to challenge in court his omission from the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) ticket for the Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Apugo made this known in a statement addressed to his supporters following the publication of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) final list of candidates.

According to the published list, Uche Stanley Mgbeorurum is listed as the NDC candidate for the Umuahia North/Umuahia South/Ikwuano Federal Constituency, while Apugo’s name is absent.

However, Apugo said he participated in the NDC primary election and claimed that he emerged victorious. He further stated that he possesses a sworn affidavit and other documentation from INEC which, according to him, affirm the outcome of the primary in his favour.

“Following the publication of the INEC final list and the absence of my name as the NDC candidate for our constituency, I believe it is important to address the concerns of our people,” Apugo said.

He disclosed that he had instructed his legal team to take appropriate legal steps to challenge the ticket and seek redress through the judicial process.

Apugo urged his supporters to remain calm, peaceful and united while the matter is being resolved through the courts.

“I remain confident in due process and committed to protecting the mandate entrusted to me,” he said.

He also maintained that the development would not affect his political activities, saying his campaign engagements would continue while the legal process runs its course.

“The mandate belongs to the people, and we will pursue justice through lawful means,” he stated.

The development adds another layer to the political contest for the constituency, with Apugo’s planned legal challenge potentially putting the NDC ticket under judicial scrutiny ahead of the 2027 elections. A report published on September 13 also confirmed that Apugo had announced his intention to challenge the disputed ticket.

The legal proceedings, and any subsequent decisions by the courts or electoral authorities, will determine the outcome of the dispute.