Olumide Akpata, a prominent figure and governorship aspirant in Edo State, has distanced himself and his supporters from a recent protest and attack on the National Chairman of the Labour Party, Julius Abure. The protest, which occurred at the party’s secretariat in Benin City, was reportedly carried out by disgruntled members expressing their discontent with Abure’s alleged bias towards certain governorship hopefuls.
Akpata firmly asserted his non-involvement in the protest, emphasizing his commitment to non-violence and disavowing any association with the upheaval. Speaking at a press conference in Benin City, he adamantly refuted the rumors linking him to the protest, denouncing them as baseless and intended to undermine his integrity and political standing within the party.
The Labour Party stalwart, who is vying for the party’s gubernatorial candidacy in the upcoming February 22, 2024, primary elections, emphasized that neither he nor his campaign organization, supporters, or well-wishers advocate or condone violence in any form. Furthermore, Akpata condemned previous unfounded allegations against him, expressing his determination to defend himself against malicious attacks through legal means.
Akpata urged those responsible for spreading false accusations to cease their actions, warning of legal repercussions if such slander continues. This statement comes as he seeks to safeguard his reputation and aspirations within the Labour Party, challenging the integrity of those attempting to besmirch his image.
The unfolding events surrounding the protest and subsequent allegations against Akpata underscore the intense political climate in Edo State, as the race for the party’s gubernatorial ticket intensifies. With tensions running high and allegations flying, the Edo State political landscape remains fraught with intrigue and contention.
