By Elijah Ugani
The Vice Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Council and NDC Candidate for the Cross River State House of Assembly, Ogoja State Constituency, Hon. Emmanuel Idi Yakubu, has secured a major legal victory following a favourable judgment delivered by a State High Court.
The judgment brings to an end a protracted legal battle that many observers had considered difficult to win, given that the case was against the state government and was being heard in a state court.
Reacting to the ruling, Yakubu described the victory as a triumph for justice, democracy, and the rule of law. He acknowledged that his confidence in the judicial process was tested after the case experienced multiple adjournments over a period of more than two months.
According to him, the court’s decision has reaffirmed public confidence in the judiciary and demonstrated that justice can prevail regardless of the parties involved.
The case had earlier attracted public attention when the court granted an injunction in favour of Yakubu and his team. However, the order was reportedly ignored by the Cross River State House of Assembly, which argued that the injunction had been served on a different committee from the one handling the matter.
Despite the challenges, Yakubu praised the presiding judge for what he described as courage, integrity, and commitment to justice.
“This victory has restored hope in the judiciary and shown that ordinary citizens can obtain justice against the government when they are on the right side of the law,” he said.
While celebrating the judgment, Yakubu acknowledged that the legal battle may not yet be over, noting that he expects the state government to challenge the ruling on appeal.
He expressed readiness to defend the mandate he says was freely given by the people of Ogoja, pledging to pursue the matter to the highest court if necessary.
“We are prepared to go all the way to the Supreme Court to defend the mandate entrusted to us by the people. We will not be intimidated,” he stated.
Yakubu also extended appreciation to his lead counsel, Baba Isa, and the FBI Legal Team for their efforts throughout the litigation, crediting their dedication and professionalism for the successful outcome.
He further thanked his family, friends, supporters, and followers for their unwavering encouragement during the legal struggle.
As celebrations continue among his supporters, Yakubu expressed optimism about the future, declaring that “the best is yet to come.”
The judgment is expected to have significant political implications in Ogoja and could shape future developments within the state’s political landscape.