A faction of the Obidient movement, known as “Obidients United for Equity, Justice, and Fairness,” has publicly rejected Peter Obi’s endorsement of Olumide Akpata as the Labour Party’s governorship candidate in Edo State.
In a statement issued by the group’s leader, Blessing Edobor, they accused Obi of disregarding internal democracy and abandoning the principles of fairness that once defined his political campaign.
The group claimed that Obi’s decision to support Akpata was influenced by personal interests, as Akpata is alleged to be a cousin of Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki.
This move, the group argues, undermines the principle of regional balance in the state, particularly regarding the call for the next governor to emerge from Edo Central, a zone they feel has been sidelined.
In their statement, the group pointed out that Peter Obi, during his 2022/2023 presidential campaign, emphasized values such as justice, equity, and fairness by ensuring a balance in religious and regional representation.
The group’s criticism centered on Obi’s apparent shift in principles, accusing him of turning a blind eye to similar calls for fairness in Edo politics.
“Peter Obi, who once stood for justice and inclusion, is now prioritizing his political ambitions over the values that earned him widespread support,” the group said.
They also highlighted how other political parties, such as the All Progressives Congress (APC), rectified similar imbalances by replacing candidates in favor of regional equity.
The group announced its support for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Asue Ighodalo, who they believe embodies the competence and fairness needed for Edo State’s leadership.
They urged their supporters to back Ighodalo in the upcoming election, stressing that his candidacy represents the justice and equity they seek for the Edo Central zone.
The upcoming election promises to be a key test of political alignment and the impact of regional demands for equity in the race for Edo’s governorship.