Unpacking the Impact: Exploring What the Court of Appeal Decision to Grant APC Rights Means for 2023 General Election

The Court of Appeal decision granting the All Progressives Congress (APC) the right to participate in the 2023 general elections in Rivers State has brought some hope to many stakeholders, especially members of the party who were anticipating a repeat of the 2019 general election where the APC was not allowed to contest in Rivers State. This latest development comes barely weeks after INEC announced that all of those who registered for their INEC Permanent Voters Card should come for collections and get prepared for the 2023 General Election.

The Court of Appeal decision granting the All Progressives Congress (APC) the right to participate in the 2023 general elections has brought some hope to many stakeholders, especially members of the party who were anticipating a repeat of the 2019 general election where the APC was not allowed to contest in Rivers State.

The ruling came as a shock to many people because it was expected that the lower court ruling would not be reversed by any court within three years after its issuance.

This latest development comes barely weeks after INEC announced that all of those who registered for their INEC Permanent Voters Card should come for collections and get prepared for the 2023 General Election.

The ruling has been received with mixed reactions, but the APC is hopeful that this will help them win in 2023.

The Court of Appeal decision granting the All Progressives Congress (APC) the right to participate in the 2023 general elections has brought some hope to many stakeholders, especially members of the party who were anticipating a repeat of the 2019 general election where the APC was not allowed to contest in Rivers State.

“The ruling is not final and there is still the possibility of an appeal, but we are optimistic about it having a positive impact on our campaign for 2023,” said the party’s Governorship flag bearer in the State Tonye Dele Cole. “We believe it will be a catalyst for other parties to assert their rights as well so let’s wait till after 2023 elections before making any definitive statements.”

The Court of Appeal decision to grant the APC the right to participate in the 2023 general elections should be welcomed by all Nigerians as it will help ensure that democracy flourishes in Nigeria. President Buhari has stated that he is open to dialogue with opposition parties and we hope that these issues can be resolved through dialogue. The ruling party has also indicated its willingness to discuss these matters with INEC so that they can expedite their processes for registration and collection of Permanent Voters’ Cards so that Nigerians can exercise their voting rights at polling stations across the country. We commend all stakeholders involved for making this happen!

Unpacking the Impact: Exploring What the Court of Appeal Decision to Grant APC Rights Means for 2023 General Election