The Edo State chapter of the Labour Party (LP) has strongly denied reports circulating online that it is in alliance with the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the September 21 governorship election. The party also refuted claims that it has received N1.6 billion from the Presidency to support its campaign.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the LP Publicity Secretary in Edo, Sam Uruopa, labeled the reports as baseless and a desperate attempt to distract the party’s governorship candidate, Olumide Akpata.
“The attention of the Edo State Labour Party has been drawn to a malicious publication trending in some online media platforms by one Vincent Osaghae on August 20, 2024, alleging a secret alliance between our governorship candidate, Olumide Akpata, and the All Progressives Congress,” Uruopa stated.
He categorically denied the allegations, describing them as an attempt to tarnish Akpata’s reputation and undermine his candidacy. “There is no truth in the claim that a secret alliance between Akpata and APC exists. Our candidate has consistently maintained his commitment to the Labour Party and its ideals,” he said.
The LP spokesperson also dismissed the notion that the party had received any financial support from the APC or the Presidency. “Akpata’s campaign is self-funded with the backing of loyal party members and supporters,” Uruopa affirmed.
He further clarified that the Labour Party would never consider an alliance with either the APC or the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), stating that both parties have “represented darkness in Nigeria and Edo State” for the past 25 years. “Akpata is a light that has nothing in common with darkness,” Uruopa added, dismissing rumors of late-night meetings with APC officials as false.
Additionally, Uruopa rejected claims that the LP received $850,000 or N1.6 billion from the Presidency or the APC. He assured the public that the party’s campaign finances are transparent and accountable, and there was no manipulation of delegates during the primaries, where Akpata emerged as the clear winner.
The statement concluded with a call to party members, the “Obidient” family, and the general public to disregard the malicious allegations, which Uruopa said were sponsored by the opposition. He reiterated that Olumide Akpata remains committed to his promise of a better Edo State and would not be distracted by baseless rumors and smear campaigns.
