Olumide Akpata, a prominent legal figure and former governorship candidate for the Labour Party (LP) in Edo State, has vehemently denied rumours of his defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). These speculations, circulating widely on social media, arose in the aftermath of the 2024 Edo governorship election, which saw Akpata losing to the APC candidate, Monday Okpebholo. Akpata, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and immediate past president of the Nigerian Bar Association, entered the political arena with considerable fanfare, joining the LP in 2023 and quickly becoming a key figure in the party’s efforts to expand its national presence following Peter Obi’s impressive performance in the 2023 presidential election. His gubernatorial campaign, though unsuccessful, was credited with galvanizing youth participation and solidifying the LP’s presence in Edo State. Akpata’s emphatic denial underscores the fluid and often rumour-filled nature of Nigerian politics, particularly in the post-election period.
The rumours of Akpata’s defection gained traction amidst a climate of uncertainty and realignment within Edo’s political landscape. The 2024 governorship election resulted in shifts in power dynamics, with the PDP solidifying its control over the state. This has fueled speculation about potential realignments and defections as political actors strategize for the upcoming 2027 general elections. Within this context, the rumour of Akpata joining the APC was seen by some as a plausible scenario. His relatively recent entry into politics, coupled with the LP’s current status as an opposition party, could be perceived as factors that might make him amenable to switching allegiances. However, Akpata’s swift and categorical denial suggests that such interpretations are misinformed.
Akpata’s statement, released on Tuesday, characterized the rumours as malicious and mischievous fabrications, orchestrated and amplified by political detractors. He categorically denied any contemplation, discussion, or action related to joining the APC, firmly stating his lack of intention to ever become a member of the ruling party. This unequivocal denial serves not only to refute the rumours but also to reaffirm his commitment to the LP and its ideals. By addressing the speculation head-on, Akpata seeks to quell uncertainty among his supporters and maintain the integrity of his political stance. This decisive response also underscores his determination to remain a significant player within the LP and the broader opposition landscape in Edo State.
The timing of the rumour and its subsequent denial are significant in understanding the ongoing political maneuvering within Edo State. The post-election period often witnesses a flurry of speculation and rumors as parties and individuals reassess their positions and strategies. The PDP’s strengthened position after the 2024 election has created a dynamic where both the APC and other opposition parties, including the LP, are seeking to recalibrate their approaches. In this context, the rumour surrounding Akpata’s potential defection could be interpreted as an attempt to destabilize the LP and potentially weaken the opposition’s collective strength. By publicly and unequivocally rejecting the rumour, Akpata aims to mitigate any potential damage to his party and reinforce his commitment to its cause.
Akpata’s entry into politics brought a fresh perspective and energized the LP’s base, particularly among the youth demographic. His campaign, while ultimately unsuccessful in securing the governorship, demonstrated the potential for attracting new voters and building a stronger opposition force in Edo State. His continued presence within the LP, as reaffirmed by his denial of defection rumors, remains crucial for the party’s future prospects. His stature as a respected legal professional and former NBA president lends credibility and influence to the LP’s efforts to establish itself as a viable alternative to the dominant PDP and the ruling APC.
The unfolding political drama in Edo State highlights the complexities of Nigerian politics, characterized by shifting alliances, intense competition, and a constant undercurrent of speculation. Akpata’s experience, from his high-profile entry into politics to the recent defection rumors and his robust denial, exemplifies the challenges and opportunities facing new entrants seeking to navigate this complex terrain. His continued commitment to the LP, despite the setback in the governorship election, signals his intent to remain a prominent figure in the state’s political landscape. How he chooses to leverage his influence and contribute to the LP’s future strategies will be a key factor in shaping the political dynamics of Edo State in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections. His actions will be closely watched by both his supporters and his detractors, as they seek to decipher his long-term political ambitions and the impact he will have on the evolving political landscape of Edo State.
