The Edo State chapter of Labour Party (LP) has refuted report in some sections of the media that its governorship candidate for the September 21 gubernatorial election in the state, Barr. Olumide Akpata, is in secret alliance with the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Edo LP also denied receiving sponsorship from the APC or the Presidency as reported by some online platforms.
The state Publicity Secretary of the LP, Comrade Sam Uroupa, in a statement said contrary to the online reports, “Akpata’s campaign is self-funded and by loyal party members and supporters”.
“We categorically deny these baseless allegations and consider them a desperate attempt to tarnish Barr. Olumide Osaigbovo Akpata’s reputation and undermine his candidacy. No late-night meetings.
“There is no truth to the claim of a secret alliance between Akpata and APC. Our candidate has consistently maintained his commitment to the Labour Party and its ideals.
“We deny receiving any such funds from the Presidency or APC. Our campaign finances are transparent and accountable,” he said.
According to the Publicity Secretary, Akpata has been focused on his ward-to-ward campaign, engaging with Edo people and presenting his vision for the state, hence has no time for such secret alliance.
He, therefore, urged “party members, the Obidient family and the general public to disregard these malicious allegations sponsored by the PDP and focus on the issues that matter,” adding “we will not be distracted by baseless rumors and smear campaigns.”
