From Moshood Karim
Olumide Akpata, the Labour Party (LP) candidate in the recently concluded Edo 2024 governorship election has announced that he will not contest the election results in court.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Monday Okpebholo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, as the winner with 291,667 votes.
Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) secured second place with 247,274 votes, while Akpata finished third, polling 22,763 votes.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Akpata explained that his decision was made to avoid the prolonged legal battles that often arise from challenging election outcomes in Nigeria.
He criticised the current system, stating that such legal processes tend to “legitimise a fundamentally compromised process” rather than correct it.
“My decision not to approach the tribunal is not a capitulation to injustice but a resolute stand against a flawed system,” Akpata said.
He stressed that his focus is on a broader, long-term goal of electoral reform, which he believes is crucial for the survival and improvement of Nigeria’s democracy.
Akpata further elaborated that his fight for justice and transparency in the electoral process transcends the courtroom, signalling his intent to pursue systemic reforms that address the root causes of Nigeria’s electoral issues. “Our fight transcends the confines of a courtroom; it is a battle for the very soul of our democracy,” he asserted.
In his statement, Akpata also addressed rumours surrounding his decision, clarifying that his choice was strategic and in the best interest of the political future of Edo State and Nigeria.
He expressed a commitment to working on initiatives that will lead to meaningful electoral reform, ensuring that future elections are fairer and more transparent.
The Edo governorship election, held on September 21, was marked by significant voter turnout and high political tensions.
Despite the outcome, Akpata’s decision not to seek legal recourse sets the stage for a broader conversation on electoral integrity and the need for reform in Nigeria’s democratic processes.
Read his statement below:
