Olumide Akpata, the Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate in last Saturday’s election in Edo State, asserted on Monday that the poll’s outcome was fundamentally flawed, marred by vote-buying and other practices that undermine democratic principles.
At a press conference in Benin, Akpata emphasized that what occurred on September 21, 2024, was not an election but rather a transaction facilitated by voters who abstained from participating and by those who, despite attending, chose to sell their votes to the two dominant parties.
He acknowledged that while the election was relatively free of traditional election-day misconduct—such as ballot box snatching and stuffing—it was still plagued by voter intimidation and result falsification.
Akpata lamented the notably low voter turnout, suggesting that this apathy reflected a resignation among the electorate to the dire circumstances they face. “Let us be clear: what transpired on September 21, 2024, was not an election but a transaction,” he stated.
“Those who stayed away made it easier for the dominant parties to secure a majority of the few available votes, and those who participated willingly sold their votes.”
Addressing those who sold their votes, he expressed understanding rather than condemnation, acknowledging the severe economic challenges many face.
“These hardships can make the immediate relief of vote-selling seem like a lifeline. However, this short-term gain carries significant long-term costs. I urge you to reflect on the consequences of your actions, as your vote is a legacy for future generations,” he urged.
The candidate also voiced concern over the involvement of some LP members and agents in these transactions, criticizing them for trading their futures for minimal rewards from the very parties that have contributed to their plight.
Furthermore, Akpata criticized the emergence of a collegiate government system characterized by godfathers, surrogate governors, and other influential figures, both within and outside the state, who aim to control the newly elected governor.
“The implications for Edo State are severe, with the risk of underdevelopment, resource misallocation, and governance prioritizing the few over the many—consequences that will impact the people for years to come,” he warned.
He also highlighted a troubling trend of vote-buying by both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP).
Citing YIAGA Africa, a prominent civil society organization and domestic observer group, he stated, “Our electoral process was reduced to a commodities market—a bidding war for votes. This practice, as damaging as outright ballot stuffing, has disenfranchised the people of Edo State.”
When asked about potential legal actions, Akpata confirmed that the election results had been submitted to his legal team for forensic analysis, which would determine the appropriate next steps.
 governorship candidate in last Saturday's election in Edo State, asserted on Monday that){kind=link}