The governorship of the Labour Party (LP) in last Saturday’s governorship election, Olumide Akpata on Monday thumbed down the exercise which he said was characterized by vote-buying allegedly by the two leading political parties, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and insisted that he had a good show and was ready to contribute his quota in any capacity to make Nigeria and Edo State better places for their people.
He said he belonged to a generation of Nigerians yearning for a genuine change and so service to the motherland has nothing to do with the social status of such individuals.
Addressing a press conference on the outcome of the election, Akpata declared that the outcome of the poll lacked integrity adding that what transpired on 21 September 2024 was not an election but a transaction enabled by those who chose to stay away, making it easier for the two dominant parties to afford a significant majority of the few votes on offer.
He said though the election was largely free from historical forms of election-day malpractice such as ballot box snatching and stuffing, it was marred by voter intimidation and the falsification of results.
“Let us be clear: what transpired on 21 September 2024 was not an election but a transaction. It was enabled by those who chose to stay away, making it easier for the two dominant parties to afford a significant majority of the few votes on offer, and by those who came out and willingly sold their votes.
More worrisome, Akpata said is the fact that among those involved in the transactions included some LP faithful and agents who willingly sold their future for peanuts to the very political parties whose actions and policies have impoverished them.
Akpata also picked holes in the unwitting institution of a collegiate system of government comprising godfathers, surrogate governors, and other forces within and outside the state who hoped to puppet the governor-elect.
To Akpata, “A troubling theme emerged as the day unfolded: a widespread vote-buying scheme by both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP). As attested to by YIAGA Africa, a leading civil society organisation and domestic observer group, our sacred electoral process was reduced to a commodities market – a bidding war for votes. This practice, no less damaging than outright ballot stuffing, has effectively disenfranchised the people of Edo State.
On whether he and his party will take legal action, Akpata said the results of the election have been submitted to lawyers for forensic analysis and to decide on what to do next.
Asked if he would take an opportunity to serve in the National Assembly in 2027 as already being speculated, he said “We went to talk to the people we went to see and we talked to them. God allowed me to see things for myself.
“I belong to a generation that is about service, we want to turn the story around, we want to change the narrative. By the time we re-organise this country, if it is a local government they said I should run, I will because I am not about the position. When we can arrange this country, any work I am given or in the course of re-arranging or re-organising this country, any task I am given, I will take. Like we say if you are a manager, manage well, if you are a driver, drive well, if you are a director, direct well, if you are governor govern well, if you are a senator senate well, policeman police well.
“That is how we are going to lead this country to the promised land. If I find myself in the National Assembly, all well. I didn’t get up to say it must be the governorship of nothing, I am owned by Nigeria, I am owned by Edo State, that is what propels me and I am worried about our state, our country. I am ready to serve in any capacity to make Nigeria a better place.”
ADC Candidate lauds exercise
The candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Engr. Derek Izedomwen on Monday lauded the exercise and congratulated Sen. Monday Okpebholo and his running mate, Hon Dennis Idahosa on their victory.
In a press release, he also commended the Nigerian Police Force, other security agencies, and the good people of Edo State for ensuring a largely peaceful election.
He said “However, it would be remiss not to address some concerns. There were widespread reports of vote-buying by the major political parties and allegations of irregularities in certain areas, particularly around the results from Edo North. All claims of irregularities must be addressed through lawful and constitutional means. I urge everyone to eschew violence and pursue any grievances through the appropriate legal channels. Democracy thrives when we uphold its principles, including the peaceful resolution of disputes.
“Despite the challenges, our campaign achieved something remarkable. The rank and popularity of our party have no doubt been significantly boosted by our campaign. Competing against 17 other parties, we showed that our message of hope, transformation, and progress was heard across the state. Our votes were organic and reflective of a genuine belief in our vision for a better Edo.
“As we reflect on this moment, we know that there is still much work to be done in perfecting our democracy. The ugly cases of vote-buying and the perception of interference from the national government in state elections must be addressed. If we are to become a truly great democracy, we must stop the exploitation of poverty during elections and ensure that the people’s will is truly reflected.”
A former House of Representatives candidate Omo Osagie also known as Mighty Man has expressed confidence that the emergence of Okpebholo and Idahosa as Edo State Governor and Deputy Governor-elect would usher in a greater and better Edo State where citizens’ wellness and preferences will be given utmost priority.
According to him, the victory would usher in a new beacon of hope and tranquillity for Edo citizens where all indices of development in all spheres would be attained to the satisfaction of citizens of the state.
Osagie in the statement opined that the breakthrough in the contest was the unity of purpose exhibited by the entire campaign team.
He said, “the all-important victory clinched by you is occasioned by the unity of purpose visibly displayed above all other primordial considerations by every stakeholder.”
Edo Professionals lauds exercise
Meanwhile, the Edo Professionals Alliance (EPA) commended the emergence of Okpebholo and Idahosa whose “A new Edo is rising” it said resonated deeply with “our common interest, and we are eager to witness the transformative impact of your leadership. Your policy thrust in education, healthcare, and economic development will undoubtedly bring positive change and improve the lives of countless individuals in Edo State.”
A statement by the Convener of the group, Adebayo Ashaolu said the group acknowledged the immense responsibility and challenge that lies ahead but “We have faith in your ability to unite our state, foster collaboration, and drive progress. Your leadership will shape the future of our state, and we are confident that you will Champion the interests of all Edo people, foster economic growth and opportunity, protect and preserve our state’s natural resources, enhance education and healthcare systems, promote social justice and equality, improve Security for a safer Edo and enhance Agricultural growth for food security
“We recognize the sacrifices you’ve made to reach this milestone and appreciate the support of your family, team, and volunteers. Their dedication and hard work have been instrumental in your success.
“As you begin this new chapter, we offer our support, guidance, and partnership. We look forward to collaborating with your administration to address pressing issues, leverage opportunities, and celebrate successes.”
