The Labour Party (LP) in the House of Representatives has rejected the outcome of the Edo State governorship election held on September 21, 2024. According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) won the election with 291,667 votes, beating Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Olumide Akpata of the LP, who garnered 247,274 and 22,763 votes, respectively ¹.
LP lawmakers, led by House Deputy Minority Whip George Ozodinobi, condemned the election, alleging that their candidate was rigged out. They claimed that Olumide Akpata, a renowned legal professional and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, had significant support from the electorate but was thwarted by enemies of democracy ¹.
The LP lawmakers expressed concerns over irregularities and alleged malpractices, including vote buying, intimidation of voters, and alteration of election results. They blamed INEC officials and security agents for the alleged election manipulation ¹.
Ozodinobi stated that the LP is committed to democratic principles and will not stand idly by while citizens’ rights are trampled upon. He urged INEC to address the concerns and ensure the integrity of future elections, particularly the 2027 polls ¹.
The LP lawmakers also hinted that they have evidence to prove that Akpata won the election, but urged Nigerians to be patient, promising that the party would soon take action on the matter ¹.
Key Points:
- Election Results: Monday Okpebholo (APC) – 291,667 votes, Asue Ighodalo (PDP) – 247,274 votes, Olumide Akpata (LP) – 22,763 votes ¹
- LP Reaction: Rejected election outcome, alleged rigging, and malpractices ¹
- Concerns: Vote buying, intimidation, alteration of election results ¹
- Call to Action: INEC to address concerns, ensure integrity of future elections ¹
