Idris Ahmed, Lokoja.
Former Kogi state Commissioner of Information and a staunch APC Stakeholder in the state, Dr. Tom Ohikere has commended the Federal High Court, Abuja, for dismissing a suit filed by Natasha Akpoti, the candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the November 16 governorship election in Kogi State, against the governor, Yahaya Bello, for lack of locus standi.
Ohikere, who described Natasha as a versatile personality in Ebira land with lots of experience and energy, urged her to channel her resources towards forging a common front with Governor Yahaya Bello who has demonstrated capacity to lead the state to an enviable height within the space of time since he assumed office.
“At this stage I expect Natasha to reserve her energy for the future political struggle of her people of Kogi central. So many things are to her advantage, she has age, energy, she is versatile, she has contacts and good network, she should pull these networks for the common interest of the state and not to allow Bello to be distracted from the good work he has begun”, he said.
Ohikere, however praised Natasha for being a good advocate for the completion of Ajeokuta steel project, advised her to direct her energy towards its realisation in view of the Federal Government’s commitment and determination.
In his opinion the dodged and patriotic politician of Natasha stuff “should use her connections to tell the world about the potentiality of the state so as to attract more investors, market Kogi state for the world to see the investment opportunities that could be mobilized in Ajeokuta.”
Recall, the judge, Inyang Ekwo, who delivered the judgement, held that the alleged offence was criminal and not a civil case, which could be instituted by an individual.
The judge therefore declared that the plaintiff had no legal right to institute the case.
The SDP candidate had, in a suit number: FHC/ABJ/CS/1221/2019 dated October 10 and filed by Mike Ozekhome, SAN, on her behalf, sought the court’s determination on the eligibility of Mr Bello, at the just-concluded election, having been allegedly involved in double registration as a voter.
He therefore advised Natasha to give up and support the current administration of Governor Yahaya Bello and not to allow personal interest to subjugate the interest of the state for the common benefits of all, “she has a lots to do for the state if she can let go of the matter.
