Umahi Kicks Over Court Ruling, Says No Vacancy In Ebonyi Govt House
- Petitions Justice Ekwo to NJC
- Describes judgment as laughable
- Insists it’s a jungle justice purchased
BY ONYEKACHUKWU IBEZIM – Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State on Tuesday says there is no cause for alarm as he remains the State’s Chief Executive despite the judgment delivered by the Federal High Court, Abuja.
According to him, there is no vacancy in the Ebonyi State Government House until May 29, 2023.
Shockingly, the Court, presided over by Justice Inyang Ekwo had sacked Umahi and his Deputy, Dr Kelechi Igwe from office, ordering that they should henceforth desist from parading themselves as such.
Speaking at the new Government House, Abakaliki, Governor Umahi described the ruling as “jungle justice that was purchased”, warning that the ruling portends a bad omen for the nation’s Judiciary.
He told newsmen; “I am still the Governor of Ebonyi State and there is no tension at all. In the first place, there is no constitutional provision for any hatchet man to remove a governor.
“There are three ways whereby a governor can vacate his office: it’s either by death, resignation and impeachment. There is no other constitutional provision that empowers a hatchet man to turn the Constitution upside down.
“I have listened to the judgement of Inyang Ekwo and it’s very obvious that he was on a mission. He was making all effort to upturn the rulings of the Appeal and Supreme Courts, on issues like this.”
Offering further insight on current development, Governor Umahi said; “We have heard the rumours before now that he was determined to give judgement against all known laws and the Constitution, first to embarrass the APC, and to equally embarrass the Federal Government.
“For me, I do not feel worried; but, I feel so bad for the judicial in Nigeria. The executives may have problems; the legislature may have problems, but the moment justice could be purchased, then we are in trouble in Nigeria.
“It’s obvious that the ruling this afternoon is clear evidence that this country is in trouble. And let me tell you, this same judge, has over ten cases against the Ebonyi State Government with him. And you can imagine what he is going to rule. “
On the way forward, Governor Umahi said; “we have petitioned him to NJC and we will follow it up to the end to ensure that this man (Ekwo) is brought to justice. I want you to disregard the judgement because it’s null and void.”
The governor urged his supporters to remain calm and laugh over the court ruling because he remains in control of the situation.
