There are more woes and challenges for Olumide Osaigbovo Akpata, the embattled Labour Party (LP) candidate for the upcoming gubernatorial election in Edo State following his party man’s dissociation from him. In a recent press statement made by Peter Gregory Obi, the LP presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Obi seemingly distanced himself from Akpata. This move indicates that the Obidient Movement, which supported Obi, does not extend its endorsement to Akpata’s candidacy in Edo State.
Peter Obi’s press release could not have come at a more opportune moment. It serves as a clear directive to members of the Obidient Movement to withdraw their support for Akpata, whose candidacy is seen as contrary to the principles of fairness, equity, inclusivity, and justice that the movement espouses.
The statement reads:
“I like to categorically state that the Obidient Movement is not directorate of any particular political party. Any individual or individuals claiming to be leaders of this non-existent directorate are simply not members of the broader Obidient Movement.
“There may be a youth mobilization directorate in political parties but the Obidient movement is far beyond a particular political party. The Obidient Movement is a diverse and inclusive collective that transcends traditional political, religious, and ethnic affiliations.
“It is not domiciled within any particular party or headquartered in any particular part of the country. Its membership spans across Africa and the globe, comprising individuals from various backgrounds, including rural communities, and public, private, and corporate entities, united by a shared vision for a New and better Nigeria. Guided by the principles of adaptive and transformative change, progress, discipline, and democratic values, the Obidient Movement advocates for fairness, equity, inclusivity, and justice.
“It is committed to a strictly accountable and responsible code of government. Our members are committed to contributing to the realization of a better future for Nigeria through the New Nigeria project, anchored on loyalty, integrity, and democratic values.
“The Obidient Movement seeks to foster positive change through a commitment to integrity, honesty, and accountability, rejecting deceitful behaviours.
“We serve as a beacon of hope for a reimagined Nigeria, where leadership is grounded in character, capacity, competence, compassion and the well-being of all citizens.
“Let this serve as a clarification that the Obidient Movement operates independently of any political party, and its membership is not limited to any particular affiliation.
“Our focus remains steadfast on driving positive change and promoting a New Nigeria for all. This is who we are and will remain for all time”.
Following the release of Obi’s statement, Akpata’s already struggling campaign has been plunged into deeper turmoil, exacerbating the existing factional conflicts within the party that threaten its stability in Edo State.
In response, Akpata’s media team is making desperate attempts to mitigate the damage by downplaying the significance of Obi’s statement and suggesting that his words have been misinterpreted. The effectiveness of this strategy remains uncertain.
Akpata has faced widespread criticism from various citizens in Edo State for his decision to run for governor. Critics point out that both Akpata and the outgoing governor, Godwin Obaseki, hail from the same senatorial district, local government area, and ward. Additionally, they are close relatives. Citizens from all three senatorial districts have questioned Akpata’s sense of justice, equity, and fairness, especially since there has been a consensus to support a candidate from the Edo Central Senatorial District in this election.