In a significant development for the upcoming governorship race in Edo State, former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) president, Olumide Akpata, has secured the Labour Party (LP) ticket.
The announcement follows a keenly contested primary election held in Benin City, the capital of Edo State, where Akpata garnered 316 votes, emerging as the clear winner.
The declaration of Akpata’s victory was made by Ikechukwu Emeta, the Deputy Governor of Abia State, who served as the chief returning officer for the LP primary election. Emeta stated, “Mr. Olumide Osaigbovo Akpata, having scored the highest number of votes… is hereby declared the winner and the gubernatorial candidate of the Labour Party for the Edo State governorship election 2024.”
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Akpata expressed gratitude to his supporters and party members, emphasizing his commitment to the welfare of the state should he triumph in the forthcoming election. He paid homage to the late Rotimi Akeredolu, a former governor of Ondo State and NBA president, on the day of his burial.
The journey to securing the LP ticket began when Akpata formally declared his interest in the Edo State governorship race under the Labour Party. In October of the previous year, he visited the LP secretariat in Benin City, articulating his motivation for entering politics and aligning himself with the party. Akpata underscored his dedication to prioritizing the needs of the people, highlighting the Labour Party’s focus on grassroots concerns.
A pivotal moment in Akpata’s political trajectory occurred in August, marked by his resignation from the law firm Templars, where he held the position of senior partner. His decision to step down was informed by his aspiration to engage more actively in the political landscape. The firm, in a statement, acknowledged Akpata’s departure, citing his desire to contribute to nation-building through politics.
Akpata’s transition into politics was a deliberate and considered choice, as he sought to move beyond mere criticism of the Nigerian system to actively participate in effecting change. Joining the Labour Party was a strategic move for Akpata, aligning himself with a political entity he perceived as genuinely concerned with the welfare of the populace.
“This was a major step for me and not one that I took lightly… but I simply got tired of complaining about Nigeria every day and bemoaning her fate,” Akpata remarked regarding his decision to delve into politics. He expressed optimism about the journey ahead, viewing his involvement in politics as a means to contribute positively to Nigeria’s trajectory.
