The Labour Party (LP) gubernatorial candidate in Edo State, Olumide Akpata, has shared insights into why he has not yet challenged the results of the recently concluded governorship election. Akpata, who finished third in the race, has voiced concerns over significant irregularities in the electoral process.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the tightly contested election. Okpebholo secured 291,667 votes, beating the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate Asue Ighodalo, who garnered 247,274 votes, while Akpata received 22,763 votes.
In an interview with Channels TV on Wednesday, the former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President expressed dissatisfaction with both the results and the process that led to Okpebholo’s victory.
When asked if he plans to contest the results in court, Akpata said his legal team is currently assessing the situation. He emphasized that any decision to challenge the election outcome will be made in consultation with his party and legal advisers.
“It’s a joint decision that both the Labour Party and I will need to make—whether or not to contest the results. I will be meeting with my lawyers, and the Labour Party will also meet with its legal team. Based on the evidence we have, and what is still being gathered, we’ll make a final decision on whether to proceed with legal action,” Akpata explained.
He further added, “I believe it’s important to step back and allow my legal team to review the available evidence before determining the next steps on my behalf.”
