As the 2024 Governorship Elections in Edo State approach, the Edo South Obidient Frontiers Coalition has voiced significant concerns regarding the Labour Party’s internal dynamics and its candidate, Olumide Akpata. This follows a series of contentious events that have unfolded within the party, casting doubt on its unity and public confidence.
In a detailed press statement signed by Idemudia Sylvester (Ikpoba Okha), Lucky Osaghae (Egor), Oghide Izekor (Oredo), Imafidon Eric (Uhunmwode) and Odiase Kennedy (Ovia South West) and made available to Truth Live News, the coalition, which was actively involved in the Obidient movement supporting Peter Obi in the last general elections, expressed their dismay over the conduct of the Edo Labour Party primaries. They highlighted that the process has severely polarized the party and alienated many loyal Obidient supporters.
Key figures, including Isaiah Osifo, who was the Labour Party’s candidate in the 2020 elections and a prominent figure in the Obidient movement, have left the party to contest under a different banner. The coalition pointed out the party’s factionalism, particularly noting the division led by the Youth Leader, and criticized the primaries as being influenced by financial incentives, referring to it as “Dollarised.”
The coalition also addressed allegations of corruption and embezzlement against the National Chairman, Julius Abure, who they accuse of conducting a controversial convention to maintain his position and auctioning the governorship ticket to the highest bidder.
“The integrity of the Obidient movement is at stake,” stated the coalition, emphasizing the principles of justice, equity, fairness, inclusivity, competence, capacity, character, and compassion that form the bedrock of their ideology. They questioned how Akpata, perceived as having maneuvered through an unfair process, could uphold these values and garner support, especially amidst widespread calls for power to shift to the Edo Central Senatorial district to promote equity and unity in the state.
The statement underscored the coalition’s belief that it is unjust and detrimental to the state’s progress for another candidate from Edo South, particularly one related to the current Governor Godwin Obaseki, to succeed him. They reiterated their commitment to the principles highlighted by their leader, Peter Obi, who emphasized the importance of unity, fairness, love, respect, and inclusiveness during his campaign visit to Edo.
The coalition’s concerns are encapsulated in their pressing questions about Akpata’s moral standing and ability to unify the Obidient movement and the broader electorate in Edo Central and Edo North amidst the ongoing controversies.