Edo State Labour Party Plunged into Chaos: Party Men Violently Beating Amidst Gubernatorial Election

Political environment in Edo State has been disrupted by a violent clash within the Labour Party. A distressing video circulating online reveals a brutal attack on members of the Lamidi Apapa group, who were in Benin City for their scheduled convention on Saturday, December 30th. The assailants, boldly challenging their victims, physically assaulted two men, marking a disconcerting escalation in the state’s political landscape.

The Lamidi Apapa faction’s spokesperson, Mr. Arabambi, spoke out against the attack, accusing the Edo State Publicity Secretary, Comrade Sam Uroupa, of orchestrating the violent incident. According to Arabambi, the leaders of the Lamidi Apapa group faced mistreatment and aggression while preparing for their upcoming political event. Notably, Mr. Olumide Akpata, a gubernatorial aspirant within the Labour Party, was implicated in the accusations for allegedly failing to intervene or restrain his supporters during the assault. Mr. Arabambi expressed his determination to report this incident to security agents, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the need for a thorough investigation.

Lamidi Apapa Faction Points Fingers at Edo State Political Figures

Amidst the chaos, the Lamidi Apapa faction is actively pointing fingers at key political figures in Edo State. In a candid interview, Mr. Arabambi continued to accuse the Edo State Publicity Secretary, Comrade Sam Uroupa, of being the mastermind behind the violent attack on the party members. This raises questions about the internal dynamics within the Labour Party and the potential motivations behind such aggression. Additionally, Mr. Arabambi implicated Mr. Olumide Akpata, a prominent gubernatorial aspirant, in the alleged lack of intervention during the assault, adding a layer of complexity to the unfolding situation.

The accusations have created a rift within the Labour Party, with the Lamidi Apapa faction expressing its dissatisfaction with the conduct of certain party members. As the details of the incident continue to emerge, the need for swift and impartial investigations becomes paramount to ensure accountability and justice.

Edo State Labour Party Strives for Stability Amidst Turmoil

Despite the recent violent episode, the political scene in Edo State remains charged as the 2024 gubernatorial election looms on the horizon. Gubernatorial aspirant Mr. Olumide Akpata has categorically refuted rumors suggesting his withdrawal from the race, asserting his commitment to contesting for the party ticket. The Labour Party‘s Public Secretary, Comrade Sam Uroupa, issued a clarifying statement, affirming Akpata’s candidacy and dispelling social media reports that falsely claimed the party had requested the former president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to abstain from the gubernatorial race.

As the party strives for stability amidst the recent turmoil, the resilience of the Labour Party in Edo State is being put to the test. The upcoming convention on December 30th will likely serve as a crucial turning point, shedding light on the party’s ability to address internal conflicts and maintain a united front as the gubernatorial election approaches. The eyes of both party members and the general public are keenly watching, emphasizing the importance of transparent and unbiased resolution mechanisms to restore faith in the democratic process.

Edo State Labour Party Denies Issuing Warning to Gubernatorial Aspirant

In a bid to address the allegations and confusion within the Edo State Labour Party, the party’s leadership has issued a statement refuting claims made by Abayomi Arabambi. According to the statement, the party, under the leadership of Comr. Kelly Ogbaloi, categorically denies issuing any warning to Barr. Olumide Osaigbovo Akpata or any other frontline aspirant to stay away from the Edo Governorship Race. This clarification aims to dispel rumors and provide transparency regarding the party’s stance on the participation of aspirants in the upcoming election.

Furthermore, the statement challenges the accuracy of claims suggesting that the Edo State LP leadership accused Akpata of serving as an operative in Godwin Obaseki’s government. The party asserts that such allegations are “false and baseless.” Reference is made to one of Akpata’s newsletters, titled “Olumide Osaigbovo Akpata is His Own Man,” where he debunked the notion that he is sponsored by the incumbent Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki. This detailed clarification from the party serves to restore confidence in the democratic process and sheds light on the complexities of political narratives.

Edo State Labour Party Stands Firm in Support of Gubernatorial Aspirant

The party spokesman, in the same statement, affirms that the former NBA President, Barr. Olumide Osaigbovo Akpata, stands as one of the top aspirants for the Edo Governorship Race without facing any encumbrances. This decisive stance aims to dispel doubts and uncertainties surrounding Akpata’s candidacy, urging both the aspirant and his supporters, as well as the general public, to disregard news publications emanating from Abayomi Arabambi and his associates.

As the party addresses these internal conflicts, it reiterates its commitment to fair and transparent democratic processes. The statement signals a determination to maintain a united front despite the recent turmoil and emphasizes the party’s confidence in Akpata’s candidacy. This narrative not only clarifies the party’s position but also strives to reinforce the image of the Edo State Labour Party as a bastion of principled politics.

Impact of Party Confusion on Perceptions of Nigerian Politics

The recent turmoil within the Edo State Labour Party, coupled with the alleged violent act, has left a bitter taste in the minds of the public. Many who viewed the Labour Party and the so-called Obedient Movement as a beacon of ethical politics are now grappling with disillusionment. The statement acknowledges the negative impact of the confusion and violence, especially considering the party’s earlier criticism of mainstream parties like APC and PDP for engaging in what was termed “vile politics.”

This turn of events raises questions about the integrity of political movements and the challenges faced by even seemingly principled parties. The statement subtly addresses these concerns, expressing a commitment to upholding the values of the party despite recent setbacks. The public’s perception of the Edo State Labour Party, once held in high regard, now hangs in the balance as the party grapples with internal strife on the eve of a crucial election.