by Joshua Amaezechi
Umunnem na Umunnam.
Please, I am writing you all to appeal to you to shame the enemies of our people by remaining calm and peaceful and allowing the law to take its course. Charles Ogah and Governor Okezie Ikpeazu are brothers!
I understand that Governor Ikpeazu has been removed by a court of law and that the court ordered that Ogah should be sworn in as governor. I also understand that Governor Ikpeazu has appealed the judgement. I am neither for Ikpeazu nor for Ogah but I am for the rule of law.
The normal practice, all over the world and in history dated back to over five centuries, is that when a judgement is appealed, the status quo remains until the appeal is heard. President Muhammadu Buhari, INEC and the Nigerian Armed forces must respect themselves and allow the law to take its course.
Hence, Governor Ikpeazu remains the governor of Abia State until the appeal is heard and decided against him. Even then, he can challenge the matter at the Supreme Court.
If Governor Ikpeazu loses at the Supreme Court, then Ogah becomes the governor of Abia State. Of course, if the law permits that.
Please, my brothers and sisters, we are Igbo and republican. Our forefathers are the originators of modern democracy and it is in our blood. Neither Ogah nor Ikpeazu should be insulted or abused on this matter because it is not a sin to be in court to seek what you consider to be your right.
It is about the Law. Let us be patient and allow the law to take its course.
Please, do not engage in any act of violence. The enemy will be happy to see confusion in Igboland, to declare a state of emergency in Abia and install a sole administrator who will neither need a state assembly nor seek your consent to hand over your ancestral homes to them.
Shame the devil again by staying peaceful and allowing the law to take its course.
Udo Chukwu diri Ala Igbo!
Reverend Joshua Amaezechi is an ordained minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ. He is a graduate of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and of Calvin Theological Seminary. He writes from Michigan, USA. Connect with him on Facebook.
The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author.
