Olumide Akpata, a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), has officially declared his intention to run in the upcoming Edo State governorship election, slated for next year. Akpata, who recently joined the Labour Party (LP), made his aspirations known, stating that his entry into the race is driven by the desire to serve the people and that the Labour Party is the only political party he identifies as truly people-oriented.
The seasoned lawyer turned politician emphasized his commitment to changing the political narrative in Edo State to ensure that the benefits of democracy reach the people. He expressed concern that, in current Nigerian politics and governance, the interests of the citizens often take a back seat, with politicians seemingly detached from the needs of the people.
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Akpata stated, “My interest is for the people of Edo State. And what I find out in politics and governance in Nigeria today is that the people have been taken out of the equation. No one cares about the people. So, when I look around, the only party I find to be people-oriented and interested in the lots of our people is the Labour Party. So, I have come here to express my interest in contesting the position of the governor and to carry the people along.”
In his declaration, Akpata pledged to elevate the Labour Party to greater heights if he emerges as the LP candidate in the upcoming primary elections. His announcement was met with a positive response from the state chairman of the Labour Party, Kelly Ogbaloi, who assured that the State Working Committee of the party had unanimously agreed to allow Akpata to run. Ogbaloi also promised a level playing field for all aspirants within the party.
As the Edo State governorship election draws nearer, Olumide Akpata’s entry into the race adds a new dimension to the political landscape, with the Labour Party now emerging as a significant player. The coming months will witness heightened political activities as various aspirants vie for their party’s ticket, all with the goal of securing the mandate of Edo State’s electorate in the forthcoming polls.
Source: PunchNG