The Federal High Court sitting in Enugu has issued an order restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and factions of the Labour Party (LP) in Anambra State from recognizing or accepting candidates allegedly nominated by a rival faction ahead of the forthcoming Anambra governorship election.
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The suit, filed by Okoye Peter Chukwunulu and Jerry Nnubia on behalf of the Interim State Executive Committee of the Labour Party in Anambra State, challenges the legitimacy of the nominations put forward by another group within the party.
In the ruling marked Suit No. FHC/AWK/CS/226/2025, Justice M.T. Segun-Bello granted interim injunctions against INEC (1st defendant) and the Labour Party (5th defendant), stopping them from:
- Recognizing or accepting Mr. George Moghalu (4th defendant) or any other candidate purportedly nominated by the faction led by Mr. Ugochukwu Emeh (2nd defendant) and C.J. Okoli Aririka, Esq (3rd defendant).
- Acting on any nomination forms, candidate lists, or electoral documents submitted by the said faction.
The court also ruled on substituted service, ordering that court processes be served on the defendants through specific means, including courier services for INEC and Labour Party at their Abuja offices, and by pasting documents on the front door of the 4th defendant’s residence in Nnewi, Anambra State.
Furthermore, the judge directed that all parties maintain the status quo pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.
The case has been adjourned to August 26, 2025, for further hearing.
This ruling comes amid deepening internal crises within the Labour Party in Anambra State, where multiple factions are battling for control of the party structure ahead of the crucial governorship election.
