In a recent statement via his official X account, Professor Chidi Anselm Odinkalu, a well-known human rights lawyer and former Chairman of Nigeria's National Human Rights Commission, has shared his thoughts on the invalidation of the Edo State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primary election by Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The primary election, held on February 22, 2024, had produced Asue Ighodalo as the PDP's governorship candidate.
However, Justice Ekwo voided the election, citing the unlawful exclusion of 378 delegates who were supposed to vote.
"Iyang Ekwo, that judge who was recently disciplined by @njcNig has struck again with a bespoke transaction!" Odinkalu wrote.
Justice Ekwo’s decision has brought controversy within political circles.
The exclusion of the 378 delegates was deemed an important violation of the electoral process, leading to the court’s ruling.
Justice Ekwo has been a controversial figure in the judiciary.
His recent disciplinary action by the National Judicial Council (NJC) has added to the questions of his rulings.
Odinkalu’s statements highlight the ongoing tensions between the judiciary and political actors in Nigeria.