The Executive Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Hon. James Melvin Ejeh, has described his recent victory at the Appeal Court as symbolic and reflective of divine will, declaring that he holds no resentment toward those who challenged his mandate.
BenriNews reports that a three-man panel, led by Hon. Justice D.M. Igyuse, allowed Ejeh's appeal and overturned the earlier ruling of the tribunal which had nullified his election. The court held that the challenge against his candidacy was a pre-election matter and outside the jurisdiction of the post-election tribunal.
Chairman Extends Olive Branch
Reacting to the unanimous decision of the Appeal Panel on Local Government Election Petitions, sitting at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) House in Abuja, Ejeh said the judgement reaffirmed his rightful election as chairman and marked the beginning of renewed hope for the people of Agatu.
"The Appeal Court has spoken, and I remain deeply grateful to God, to the Governor of Benue State, His Excellency Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, to the ALGON Chairman Hon. Orwough Maurice, and to all who stood by me," Ejeh said in an official statement.
The Agatu Chairman, while dedicating the victory to the people of his local government area, extended a hand of reconciliation to his political opponents.
In my heart, I have no place for resentment. I have forgiven all those who stood against me and the unity of Agatu. I call on you all to join me and bring forward suggestions to move Agatu forward.
Legal Background
The Appeal Court's decision comes after an earlier ruling by the tribunal had nullified Ejeh's election. The higher court determined that matters concerning candidacy eligibility are pre-election issues that fall outside the jurisdiction of post-election tribunals.
This ruling reinforces the legal principle that challenges to a candidate's eligibility must be addressed before elections take place, not afterward through election petition tribunals.
The judgement represents a significant legal victory for Ejeh and affirms his position as the duly elected chairman of Agatu Local Government Area in Benue State.
