Chief Edozie Njoku, National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), hailed the Supreme Court judgment granting financial autonomy to Nigeria’s 774 Local Government Areas, asserting that the party, as a grassroots movement, is the biggest beneficiary of this decision.
In preparation for the forthcoming elections in Edo State, Chief Njoku announced efforts to reposition and strengthen the party’s structures to make a significant impact. Emphasizing the importance of unity, he called for total reconciliation among aggrieved members to enhance the party’s prospects in future elections.
Speaking in Abuja after a thanksgiving service at the Holy Ghost Provincialate Center, Katampe Extension, Chief Njoku noted that the Supreme Court’s judgment effectively returned power to the grassroots. He remarked, “That’s what it should be,” highlighting Nigeria’s 3-tier system of government. He compared the situation to states not receiving funds from the federal government, emphasizing the necessity of financial independence for local governments.
Chief Njoku admitted that the July 11, 2024, Supreme Court ruling has empowered the people, aligning with APGA’s grassroots philosophy. He expressed optimism about APGA capitalizing on this opportunity, stating, “APGA is not a party for big men, it’s a mass movement for the grassroots.”
Addressing his plans for the party, Chief Njoku stressed the need for organization ahead of the Edo State elections and local government elections nationwide. He acknowledged the party’s recent crisis but urged efforts to mitigate its impact and foster unity.
Chief Njoku also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for recognizing him as the lawful APGA National Chairman, dismissing criticisms from dissenting voices. He appealed to APGA members and Nigerians to recognize the party’s significant role in the nation’s politics, urging patience and unity to avoid destabilizing the party.
“APGA has a big role to play in Nigerian politics,” Chief Njoku concluded, calling for calm and thoughtful discourse to maintain party stability.
