The Edo State chapter of the Labour Party, on Thursday, denied a trending online publication that it is in alliance with the All Progressives Congress for the September 21 governorship election and has collected N1.6bn from the Presidency.

In a statement on Thursday, the LP Publicity Secretary in Edo, Sam Uruopa, described the report as baseless and a desperate attempt to distract the party’s governorship candidate, Olu Akpata.

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Uruopa said, “The attention of the Edo State Labour Party has been drawn to a malicious publication trending in some online media platforms by one Vincent Osaghae on August 20, 2024, alleging a secret alliance between our governorship candidate, Olumide Akpata, and the All Progressives Congress.

“We categorically deny these baseless allegations and consider them a desperate attempt to tarnish Olumide Akpata’s reputation and undermine his candidacy.

“Ordinarily, we would have ignored it because the author is insignificant but for the sake of the innocent reading public, we deemed it necessary to set the records straight.

“First, there is no truth in the claim that a secret alliance between Akpata and APC exists. Our candidate has consistently maintained his commitment to the Labour Party and its ideals.

“We also deny receiving any sponsorship from the APC or the Presidency. Akpata’s campaign is self-funded with the backing of loyal party members and supporters.”

He said the LP would never consider any alliance with either the APC or the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, because, according to him, both parties for the past 25 years “represent darkness in Nigeria and Edo State.”

“Akpata is a light that has nothing in common with darkness. The alleged late-night meetings with APC officials are false. Akpata has been focused on his ward-to-ward campaign, engaging with the Edo people and presenting his vision for the state.

“We deny receiving $850,000 or N1.6bn or any such funds from the Presidency or APC. Our campaign finances are transparent and accountable.

“There was no manipulation of delegates as the Labour Party conducted the freest and fairest primaries devoid of any godfather interference where Akpata emerged as the clear winner.

“We urge our party members, the Obidient family and the general public to disregard these malicious allegations sponsored by the opposition and focus on the issues that matter. Olumide Akpata remains committed to his promise of a better Edo State for all, and we will not be distracted by baseless rumours and smear campaigns. With Akpata and Kadiri, Edo will be Ok.”