The Edo State chapter of the Labour Party has vehemently denied allegations of a secret alliance with the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the September 21 governorship election.
The party also dismissed claims of receiving N1.6 billion from the Presidency.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Labour Party Publicity Secretary Sam Uruopa described the allegations as “baseless” and a “desperate attempt” to tarnish the reputation of their governorship candidate, Olu Akpata. Uruopa emphasized that Akpata’s campaign is self-funded and transparent, with no involvement from the APC or Presidency.
The party also denied allegations of late-night meetings with APC officials, stating that Akpata has been focused on his ward-to-ward campaign, engaging with the Edo people and presenting his vision for the state.
Read Also: IPOB denies links to Finland-based Simon Ekpa, condemns Enugu Gov’s claims
Uruopa further emphasized that the Labour Party would never consider an alliance with either the APC or the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, citing their commitment to bringing “light” to Edo State after 25 years of “darkness” under the two parties.
The party urged its members and the public to disregard the allegations, focusing instead on the issues that matter, and expressed confidence in Akpata’s promise of a better Edo State for all.
The statement reads, “We categorically deny these baseless allegations and consider them a desperate attempt to tarnish Olumide Akpata’s reputation and undermine his candidacy.
“First, there is no truth in the claim that a secret alliance between Akpata and APC exists. Our candidate has consistently maintained his commitment to the Labour Party and its ideals.
“We also deny receiving any sponsorship from the APC or the Presidency. Akpata’s campaign is self-funded with the backing of loyal party members and supporters.
“Akpata is a light that has nothing in common with darkness. The alleged late-night meetings with APC officials are false. Akpata has been focused on his ward-to-ward campaign, engaging with the Edo people and presenting his vision for the state.
“We deny receiving $850,000 or N1.6bn or any such funds from the Presidency or APC. Our campaign finances are transparent and accountable.
“There was no manipulation of delegates as the Labour Party conducted the freest and fairest primaries devoid of any godfather interference where Akpata emerged as the clear winner.”
The post EDO POLLS: Labour Party denies alleged alliance with APC, rejects N1.6bn bribery claim appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from Ripples Nigeria.