Uzodimma vs Okorocha: I have no hand in court judgment - Wike

Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has firmly denied any connection to the Federal High Court's recent ruling that invalidated incumbent Governor Hope Uzodimma's status as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Imo West senatorial district in the 2027 general elections. During a media briefing in Port Harcourt, Wike dismissed concerns linking his name to the court decision, labeling such speculation as "mischievous."

He expressed disagreement with Uzodimma's rainbow coalition initiative but asserted that the focus should remain on President Bola Tinubu's re-election in 2027. Wike questioned Uzodimma's motives, asking, "What is Uzodimma afraid of? Our priorities should be working to see the re-election of President Bola Tinubu in 2027. If there is an initiative to achieve that, then what is the issue?"

The court's decision on October 29, 2023, was delivered by Justice Obiora Egwuatu, who ruled that former Governor Rochas Okorocha had won the APC primary held on May 18, 2026, and ordered the party to nominate Okorocha as its candidate. The court also issued an injunction preventing Uzodimma from running as the party's candidate for the January 16, 2027, election.

Since the judgment, a video from 2026 showing Wike and Okorocha dancing and celebrating together has circulated online, leading some to believe that Wike was involved in securing Okorocha's nomination. However, Wike firmly denies any role in the matter, emphasizing his focus on national priorities.