As the Edo State Governorship Election approaches, concerns have been raised about Labour Party candidate Olumide Akpata, who is said to be a cousin of the outgoing Governor, Godwin Obaseki. Some argue that it would be unjust for Akpata to replace Obaseki after his eight years in office.
In a recent statement, the Edo Elders Forum pointed out that Akpata’s close familial ties to Governor Obaseki raise questions of fairness.
The group stated that Akpata’s desire to succeed Obaseki contradicts the widespread call for a shift in power to the Edo Central Senatorial District. Both Akpata and Obaseki are from the Oredo Local Government Area in Edo South, a region that has already governed the state for 16 years, starting from the Lucky Igbinedion administration in 1999. The Elders Forum stressed the need for a power shift to other regions of the state.
“As elders and men of good conscience, we have a moral responsibility to promote equity and justice to ensure peaceful coexistence in Edo State. A vote for Akpata, in our view, goes against fairness and good conscience,” the group declared.
They emphasized that while competence is important, it must be balanced with fairness and justice when deciding the next governor of Edo State. The group reiterated their belief that power should shift to the Esan people in Edo Central so that they too can feel represented, stating, “Edo belongs to all of us.”
Another anonymous source claimed that Akpata, aware of his limited chances in the election, is being heavily funded to create distractions in Benin City. There are further accusations that Akpata is being backed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to divide votes in Edo South, thus giving APC a better chance at victory. Allegedly, his campaign funds are linked to the Office of the Chief of Staff to President Tinubu, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila.
The group urged Edo residents to stay vigilant and not be misled by political games as the election draws near.