On Thursday, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State made a significant visit to Benin City, the capital of Edo State, to rally support for the Labour Party’s governorship hopeful, Olumide Osaigbovo Akpata, ahead of the upcoming election on September 21.
During the enthusiastic rally, Otti urged Labour Party supporters in Edo to cast their votes for Barr. Olumide Akpata and to remain vigilant against any attempts to undermine their electoral choices.
“My purpose in Edo is to energize support, particularly among the Igbo-speaking communities, for our party’s candidate,” Otti explained. He emphasized the importance of the forthcoming election, stressing the need for constituents to protect their votes fiercely.
While acknowledging that the party might lack military resources, he asserted that the strength of the people is what will ultimately secure victory for their chosen candidate.
“I am here to make a heartfelt appeal to you all. You are part of our family. I told Olumide there’s no need to preach to those who are already convinced,” Otti stated. “Now is the time to reach out and win over others.”
He declared that this election represents a pivotal moment for Edo State, one that holds the potential to bring about meaningful change. “Though we may not have all the weapons, we possess the support of the people.”
Otti encouraged supporters to remain at their polling stations after voting, drawing from his experience in Abia State. “For 48 to 72 hours, we must stay vigilant. Remember, rats won’t steal food if the owner is awake. We must stay alert to safeguard our victory,” he urged.
Also addressing the crowd, Senator Darlington Nwokocha, Secretary of the Caretaker Committee, urged voters not to betray the party by selecting candidates other than Akpata if they wish to reap the benefits of democracy, similar to what is currently being enjoyed in Abia.
“The victory is ours for the taking, and we must deliver on that day. What Abia experiences now, Edo State will experience too,” Nwokocha affirmed.
In his remarks, Barr. Olumide Akpata welcomed Governor Otti’s presence, highlighting that Otti’s visit was aimed at encouraging the people of Edo to support him and his running mate, Barr. Kadiri Asamah. “As Jesus said, he came not for the saved but for the lost,” Akpata concluded.
