Edo Election: “Akpata Was Brazenly Rigged Out of the Process” – Labour Party Reps

The Labour Party (LP) caucus in the House of Representatives has alleged widespread rigging in the recently concluded Edo State governorship election, asserting that their candidate, Olumide Akpata, was unfairly edged out.

On Sunday, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the election, with 291,667 votes. Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) followed closely with 247,274 votes, while Akpata of the LP came in third with 22,763 votes.

Both the PDP and LP have rejected the outcome, citing irregularities.

Addressing journalists on Wednesday, George Ozodinobi, leader of the LP caucus in the House, stated that the results “do not reflect the true will of the people” of Edo State. Flanked by fellow lawmakers, Ozodinobi described the election as a rigged process, claiming that Akpata, whom he referred to as the best candidate, was “brazenly rigged out.”

“Akpata garnered significant support from the electorate, but enemies of democracy thwarted his efforts,” said Ozodinobi. He further pointed out that Peter Obi, LP’s 2023 presidential candidate, campaigned extensively for Akpata, drawing large crowds during rallies across the state. According to Ozodinobi, it was baffling that Akpata secured so few votes in a state where the Labour Party holds key legislative positions.

The caucus outlined a series of alleged malpractices, including voter intimidation, vote buying, and manipulation of election results, accusing state actors, security personnel, and electoral officials of complicity in the rigging.

Ozodinobi warned that such electoral misconduct must not be allowed to continue, emphasizing the need for transparency in future elections.

“To us, what transpired in Edo on September 21 is the highest theft of the season,” the caucus declared. “The electorate was robbed of their votes, and their will was disregarded.”

The legislators urged INEC to safeguard the integrity of future elections, particularly ahead of the 2027 general polls. The Labour Party, they said, remains committed to democratic values and will not tolerate any attempt to undermine the rights of citizens.

“Obidient movement tsunami is coming,” Ozodinobi concluded. “No person born of a woman will stop us.”