Olumide Akpata, the governorship candidate of the Labour Party in Edo State, has condemned a recent violent attack on his supporters. He described the incident as a calculated attempt by political opponents to intimidate the electorate ahead of the upcoming polls. Akpata warned that using violence to win elections is a strategy that will no longer work in modern-day Nigeria.
Resisting the return of political thuggery
The former President of the Nigerian Bar Association noted that certain groups are desperate to maintain their hold on power at all costs. He lamented that peaceful citizens who were simply exercising their rights were targeted by armed hoodlums. For Akpata, this attack is a sign that the old political establishment is terrified of the growing influence of the Labour Party.
He called on the security agencies to act swiftly and bring the perpetrators of the violence to justice. A failure to hold these individuals accountable will only encourage more attacks as the election date draws closer. Akpata emphasized that the people of Edo State deserve a free and fair electoral process devoid of fear.
Empowering the youth to demand change
The Labour Party candidate encouraged the youth not to be discouraged by the tactics of the opposition. He believes that the energy and determination of the younger generation are the greatest threats to the status quo. Akpata urged his supporters to remain peaceful and focused on the goal of transforming the state for the better.
During his campaign tours, he has consistently preached a message of hope and economic revival. He argues that the state’s resources have been mismanaged for too long, leading to widespread poverty and infrastructure decay. The recent attack, he claims, is a desperate attempt to drown out this message of reform and accountability.
A commitment to a peaceful electoral process
Akpata has signed several peace accords and remains committed to the principle of non-violence. He challenged other candidates to do the same and to publicly condemn the actions of their overzealous supporters. The eyes of the nation are on Edo State, and the conduct of the political leaders will be a major factor in determining the outcome.
The people of Edo are being urged to turn out in large numbers on election day to make their voices heard. Akpata believes that a high voter turnout is the best defense against those who want to subvert the will of the people. As the campaign intensifies, the Labour Party remains resolute in its mission to bring “New Nigeria” to the heartbeat of the nation.
