Rivers APC Threatens Expulsion for Members Tarnishing Party’s Image Through Courts

The Tony Okocha-led All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State has issued a stern warning to members attempting to use the judiciary to undermine the party’s reputation.

Okocha revealed during a media chat in Port Harcourt on Sunday that the party plans to appeal the recent ruling by Justice Godwin Ogbondah of the Rivers State High Court, which invalidated the state congresses held in November 2024.

Justice Ogbondah had ruled on Friday that the congresses violated an existing court order.

The case was brought forward by three aggrieved APC members—Okwu Joebrown-Ndike, Peace Oganu, and Samuel Uchegbule—who alleged they were unfairly excluded from the congress process despite purchasing nomination forms.

Okocha Vows to Enforce Discipline

Addressing the fallout, Okocha stressed his commitment to maintaining party discipline and warned against actions that could embarrass the APC or its national leadership.

“The day I was sworn in, I extended an olive branch to everyone, asking them to work together for the party’s progress,” Okocha stated. “But if anyone continues to embarrass the party, I will not sit idly by. I will expel them.

The APC is the President’s political party, and no one will tarnish its image or undermine its national secretariat.”

Okocha further emphasized that the APC National Working Committee (NWC) had approved the congress dates, ensuring transparency.

He also highlighted his unopposed candidacy as state chairman, attributing it to the trust and confidence party members have in his leadership.

Defence of the Congresses

Okocha defended the congresses, noting that nomination forms were sold openly to all interested members.

He disclosed that he purchased his form for ₦3 million and campaigned extensively, even though no one contested against him.

He dismissed claims of exclusion or court interference, stating, “The party leadership is not so inept as to violate its own rules.

The Supreme Court has repeatedly upheld the principle of party supremacy, and judicial interference in internal party matters is unacceptable.”

Response to Court Ruling

Okocha described the court’s judgement as inconsequential, insisting that the APC would continue its activities in line with its constitution.

“The party is supreme, and no court decision can dictate how we run our affairs in Rivers State. We are within the ambits of the law,” he asserted.

Allegations Against Governor Fubara

Okocha accused Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara of meddling in APC affairs and manipulating the judiciary for political gain.

He claimed the governor is no longer a recognized member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and lacks a political platform.

“Governor Fubara has turned the judiciary into his supermarket, assigning cases to judges of his choice to destabilize our party,” Okocha alleged.

“Instead of interfering in APC affairs, he should focus on re-registering himself as a PDP member.”

Okocha concluded by reiterating his commitment to upholding party unity and discipline, warning detractors to desist from actions that could harm the APC’s image.