Olumide Akpata shares insights on the Edo gubernatorial election, revealing that some members of his party sold their votes. Learn more about the lessons he’s drawn from this political experience.
The Labour Party’s gubernatorial candidate in the recent Edo State election, Olumide Akpata, has alleged that some members of his party compromised their votes in favor of other political parties.
It is noteworthy that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced on Sunday that Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) emerged victorious in the election held on Saturday.
The APC candidate secured 291,667 votes, surpassing his nearest rival, Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who received 247,274 votes.
READ ALSO: BREAKING: INEC Declares Okpebholo Winner of Edo Guber Poll
In contrast, Olumide Akpata finished in third place with a total of 22,763 votes.
In an interview with Channels TV regarding the election, Akpata attributed his defeat to poverty, asserting that many of his supporters, as well as members of the Labour Party, opted to sell their votes.
Describing the situation as tragic, Akpata emphasized that the choice made by voters to accept cash was a significant lesson for him.
He stated, “Some of my supporters chose to remain at home, while a considerable number sold their votes.
“What transpired was indeed a tragedy. We should shift our focus from Akpata and the Labour Party to critically examine our electoral process.
“Members of my party sold their votes, and this is an issue that warrants thorough investigation. They opted for cash, which serves as a crucial lesson. It indicates that one must reassess their understanding of the electorate and engage in deeper reflection.”
