Olumide Akpata, a gubernatorial aspirant of the Labour Party, has expressed his commitment to the party, even if he does not win the upcoming primary election. In an interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, the former NBA president acknowledged that there may be irregularities within the party, citing concerns from previous elections.
He hopes that those who supervised the previous elections will go back to the drawing board to ensure that there are no repeats. Despite the concerns, he stated that if he loses during the primaries, he will accept it and move on as a good sportsman and democrat.
Akpata emphasized that he joined the party because he believes in what the party stands for, and not because of personal interests. He added that if party operators are behaving in an underhanded manner, it does not mean that the party has changed. Instead, the solution is to enthrone leadership that works in line with the party’s objectives.
Regarding endorsement by the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, Akpata stated that he has not been endorsed. He explained that Obi cannot endorse a candidate from among the 28 aspirants, and he expects neutrality from Obi. Akpata also praised Obi’s democratic principles and respect for the process.