Senatorial Primary: Ephriam Inyangeyen distance self over court injunction

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) aspirant for Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District, Mr Ephraim Inyangeyen has distanced himself from the senatorial primaries to be held today in the state over a court injunction on the matter.

Inyangeyen stated that the Federal High Court in Abuja had ordered the Peoples Democratic Party to maintain the status quo ante Bellum in the case involving whether or not the contentious issue of Adhoc delegates should be used for the election of the flag bearers of the party for the forthcoming general elections.

Speaking through a press release on Monday in Uyo, the immediate past Chief of Staff to Governor Udom Emmanuel, said himself, his supporters, and agents will not participate in the nomination exercise as the delegates to be used are not recognised by the laws of the land.

He however explained that his decision does not mean a withdrawal from the race, saying he was still contesting to serve his people.

Inyangeyen stated that he would participate in the nomination when the matter has been resolved in court and appealed to his supporters to remain law-abiding.

“A court of first instance which is equally of competent jurisdiction has made a pronouncement on the matter which was correctly and legally interpreted to mean that statutory delegates are yet to be approved for purposes of nominating candidates for the general election, to this extent and in obedience to court orders.

“I hereby disassociate myself from whatever the party intends to do using the unapproved Adhoc delegates list today 23rd May 2022.

“Myself, my agent, and supporters therefore shall not participate in the nomination exercise as delegates to be so used by the Party are not recognised by the laws of the land.

“The refusal of myself and members of my team to participate is not a withdrawal from the race. I am still so much in the race to serve my people of Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District.

“Our refusal to join the charade is in total obedience to court orders as we don’t want to be seen or charged for contempt of court,” he stated.