Former National President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Mr. Olumide Akpata, has secured the Labour Party’s ticket as the gubernatorial candidate for the upcoming Edo State governorship election.

In a closely contested primary election held on Friday in Benin City, Akpata outperformed other aspirants, garnering 316 votes to emerge victorious. The announcement of his victory was made by the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Ikechukwu Emeta, who also served as the chief returning officer for the election.

“I hereby declare as follows: Mr. Olumide Osaigbovo Akpata, having scored the highest number of votes and certified the provisions of the constitution of the party, is hereby declared the winner and the gubernatorial candidate of the Labour Party for the Edo State governorship election 2024,” declared Emeta.

Expressing gratitude for his triumph, Akpata paid tribute to the late former governor of Ondo State and NBA president, Rotimi Akeredolu, whose burial coincided with the primary election. He extended appreciation to his supporters and party members for their unwavering backing, pledging to prioritize the well-being of the state if successful in the gubernatorial election scheduled for September.

Akpata’s emergence as the Labour Party’s candidate adds a dynamic dimension to the upcoming election, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his tenure as the NBA National President. As the political landscape in Edo State takes shape, residents and stakeholders await the unfolding developments leading up to the crucial polls.