Court Sacks Tony Okocha, Reinstates Emeka Beke as Chairman of APC in Rivers State

In a significant development, a Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt has dismissed the seven-member Caretaker Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, led by Chief Tony Okocha. The court’s decision reinstates Emeka Beke’s executive as the official leadership of the APC in Rivers State.

The ruling followed a suit filed by Sam Sam Etetegwung, Banarth Ezemoye, Ezekiel Ubom, and other party members, challenging the legitimacy of the caretaker committee. Justice Sika Aprioku, delivering the ruling on Monday, upheld the claims of the plaintiffs and reinstated Beke’s executive committee, effectively dismissing the caretaker committee and its authority.

The court’s decision has brought an end to the leadership tussle between Tony Okocha and Emeka Beke. The APC in Rivers State can now move forward under the leadership of Beke, with a renewed focus on party activities and preparations for upcoming local government elections.

The ruling has been met with mixed reactions from the political scene in Rivers State. Supporters of Emeka Beke have hailed the court’s decision as a victory for the rule of law and a step towards restoring stability within the party. On the other hand, supporters of Tony Okocha have expressed disappointment and vowed to explore legal options to challenge the ruling.

The court’s decision also comes at a time of heightened political tension in Rivers State, with the recent defection of 27 lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC. The defection has further deepened the political divide in the state and raised concerns about the future of the PDP in Rivers State.

As the APC in Rivers State moves forward under the leadership of Emeka Beke, it remains to be seen how the party will navigate the current political landscape and prepare for the upcoming local government elections. The court’s decision has undoubtedly set the stage for a new chapter in the party’s history, and all eyes will be on the APC as it seeks to consolidate its position in Rivers State.