A pro‑Tinubu group has warned that a recent Federal High Court ruling recognizing Rochas Okorocha as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Imo West Senatorial District could heighten political tensions in the South‑East and undermine President Bola Tinubu’s support ahead of the 2027 general elections. The statement, issued on Saturday in Abuja by the Renewed Hope Foot Soldiers for Tinubu (RHFST), says the dispute has implications far beyond the senatorial constituency, affecting Senate presidency calculations and raising fears that a leading South‑East contender may be shut out before the next Senate is constituted.
Court decision reshapes South‑East Senate dynamics
The group’s National President, Hon. Gbenga Owojori, highlighted that the ruling has altered the political calculus for the Senate presidency. It argues that Governor Hope Uzodimma, a former senator, should be allowed to pursue his political ambitions under established rules. Uzodimma’s supporters view him as a credible Senate president candidate, citing cross‑party backing from regional leaders. The dispute also draws attention to allegations that Senate President Godswill Akpabio seeks to block Uzodimma’s rise, while former Rivers State Governor and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike is said to have backed legal challenges against the Imo governor. Critics link these actions to Akpabio’s earlier support for Wike during his feud with Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
APC urged to ensure transparent nominations
RHFST cautioned that the allegations should not be treated as established facts and called for the judgment to be assessed on its legal merits. The group stressed that Uzodimma’s candidacy should be evaluated on his political record, experience, and support base rather than being denied an opportunity to run. It urged the APC to adopt transparent nomination processes and avoid actions perceived as excluding candidates to protect the interests of others. The organization warned that if South‑East leaders conclude their support is not matched by fair political representation, party unity could weaken, grassroots mobilisation may suffer, and Tinubu’s ability to expand his political base ahead of 2027 could be compromised.
Tinubu’s 2027 prospects tied to regional confidence
The group emphasized that the President needs a united party and the confidence of political allies across the country. It noted that allowing Uzodimma a fair chance to pursue his ambitions would help sustain confidence in the APC, while further perceived marginalisation of the South‑East could deepen regional dissatisfaction and erode the coalition the President will need in 2027. RHFST called on APC leadership to address these concerns through transparent processes and inclusive dialogue, stressing that Tinubu’s second‑term prospects depend partly on party cohesion and the trust of regional allies.