In a surprising turn of events, Olumide Akpata, the Labour Party candidate in the recent Edo State governorship election, has announced he will not contest the election results.
This announcement comes after Akpata finished third in the election held on September 21, securing only 22,763 votes.
The election was won by Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who received 291,667 votes.
Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) followed closely with 247,274 votes.
Akpata, a former president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), made his decision public in a statement released on Saturday.
He explained that his choice was not about accepting defeat but rather a stand against what he called a “flawed system.”
“This is a pivotal juncture in Edo State and Nigeria’s democratic journey,” Akpata said.
He emphasised the need for systemic reform instead of engaging in what he termed “protracted legal battles.”
In his statement, he said, “My decision not to approach the tribunal is not a capitulation to injustice, but a resolute stand against a flawed system.”
Akpata expressed concern over the state of Nigeria’s democracy, stressing that the fight for electoral integrity goes beyond the courtroom.
He stated, “Our fight transcends the confines of a courtroom; it is a battle for the very soul of our democracy.”
The former NBA president noted that he had consulted extensively with his legal team and key stakeholders before making this decision.
“After deep reflection and rigorous analysis, we have scrutinised every facet of this election,” he explained.
Akpata, with over 30 years of legal experience, indicated that his decision was also about the larger implications for democracy in Nigeria.
“It is a statement on the state of our democracy and a clarion call for all who cherish the principles of free and fair elections,” he said.
His decision comes amid ongoing debates about the fairness of elections in Nigeria.
Many Nigerians have voiced concerns over electoral integrity, questioning the processes that lead to results.
Akpata’s stance reflects a growing frustration among political leaders and citizens who seek genuine democratic reforms.
In the wake of the election, some political analysts have suggested that the results indicate a need for fundamental changes in how elections are conducted in Nigeria.
Akpata’s call for reform aligns with sentiments from various quarters advocating for a more transparent electoral process.
“It’s time we address the issues at the core of our electoral system,” he remarked.
He urged fellow Nigerians to join in the quest for a more robust democracy.
“Let us work together to ensure that our electoral process is free, fair, and reflective of the will of the people,” Akpata stated.
