Olumide Akpata, the Labour Party’s gubernatorial candidate for Edo State, has firmly declared that he is not under the control of any political godfather. He asserts that his commitment is solely to the people of Edo State, and he aims to reflect this principle in both his campaign and potential governance.
In a recent interview, Akpata highlighted the Labour Party’s dedication to accountability and transparency. He emphasized that one of the primary reasons voters can trust the Labour Party is its pledge to be answerable exclusively to the public. “If elected in the upcoming September 21, 2024, election, my administration will prioritize the needs and interests of the people above all else,” Akpata assured.
Addressing the issue of political influence, Akpata stressed his independence. “I am completely autonomous in this race,” he said. “I do not have any political godfather manipulating the direction of my campaign or policies. My loyalty is directly to the citizens of Edo State. This independence is a core reason why the people can trust our party and its future government.”
Akpata also confronted claims about his campaign’s funding. He refuted allegations that Governor Godwin Obaseki is supporting his campaign financially. There have been various rumors suggesting that Akpata is acting as an agent of Obaseki or is being financed by the APC. “These claims are unfounded and amount to nothing more than baseless conspiracy theories,” Akpata stated.
He elaborated on how his campaign is funded, revealing that he is largely self-financing his efforts. “I am using my own resources to fund this campaign. Additionally, I have the support of friends and associates who believe in my vision for a better Edo State. Their backing is crucial in sustaining our campaign,” he explained. “It is important for the electorate to know that my campaign is driven by a genuine commitment to improving the lives of Edo people, not by any external political or financial influences.”
Akpata’s statements are part of a broader effort to position himself as a candidate focused on public service and integrity. By distancing himself from traditional political networks, he aims to offer voters a fresh alternative that prioritizes transparency and accountability. His campaign focuses on addressing local issues and fostering development, with the promise of a leadership that truly serves the interests of Edo State’s residents.
