The removal of Governor Dave Umahi of Ebonyi and his Deputy, Dr Eric Kelechi-Igwe, from office by a Federal High Court in Abuja has elicited mixed emotions.
While some people viewed it as a positive development, others were disappointed by the decision.
Residents in Abakaliki who talked with the Nigerian News Agency (NAN) on Tuesday characterized it as a “win for democracy.”
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According to them, the decision shows that the court remains a light of democracy and the average man’s final chance.
Mr Basil Igwe, a local, believes the ruling would strengthen democracy in the court and limit the excesses of politicians, particularly elected officials who switch parties.
“The decision accurately reflects the Constitution and the Electoral Act.” The governor illegally left the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), which had backed him in both the 2015 and 2019 elections.
“The court judgment is a vindication of our constitution, and it will go a long way toward reining in our politicians’ excesses of jumping from one political party to another without justification,” he added.
Mr. Uchenna Igwe, another resident, stated that the triumph was not for the PDP, but for every democratically-minded member of the country.
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He grieved that the nation’s democracy was in great risk as a result of some politicians’ attitudes and disregard for the Constitution’s provisions.
“The ruling will act as a deterrence to those elected officials who wish to quit the party that helped them win and join another without giving up their post.”
“I congratulate Justice Enyang Ekwo’s boldness in issuing the judgment, and I urge the judiciary to stay vigilant in their duties,” he stated.
Meanwhile, a lawyer, Mr Godwin Onwe, said the governor had the option of appealing and would continue to be governor till the Supreme Court heard the final appeal on the subject.
“However, the Federal High Court’s decision has resulted in the governor’s dismissal. However, Umahi retains his position as governor of Ebonyi because he has the right to appeal to the Supreme Court,” he explained.
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Despite the governor’s conviction, the security situation in Abakaliki and its surrounds has remained quiet and serene.
Remember that the Governor was fired on Tuesday by a Federal High Court in Abuja, following his switch from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the governing All Progressive Congress (APC) (APC)
Mr John Okoro, a citizen, told NAN in Abakaliki that the ruling dismissing Umahi was not in Ebonyi people’s best interests.
Okoro, a Political Analyst, described Umahi as a good leader and urged the court to reverse the ruling in favour of Umahi.
“Does it mean that we will not have a Governor at this period as the nation is prepping for the 2023 elections?
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“I am not happy over the sack. Gov Umahi has done so much good for his people. The sack is not good, especially now that he is getting set to take the presidential position.
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