…As Dep. Governorship candidate’s name is missing

The final list of candidates for the upcoming governorship election in Edo state as published by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has unsettled the leadership of the Edo State Chapter of the Labour Party (LP).

The party has faulted the electoral body for omitting the name of its validly nominated running mate, Alhaji Asamah Yusuf Kadiri, (SAN) instead of Oluyinka Faith Alufohai who was listed by the electoral body.

Recall on April 19, it was reported that Labour Party governorship candidate in the September 21 gubernatorial election, Olumide Akpata dropped Oluyinka Faith Alufohai and picked Alhaji Asamah Yusuf Kadiri, SAN as the deputy governorship candidate of the party.

In a press statement by Comrade Kelly Ogbaloi, State chairman LP, made available to journalists in Benin City, he assured party members and supporters that “this is simply a technical error.”

According to Comrade Ogbaloi, “Our team followed all necessary procedures and submitted Alhaji Kadiri’s name and credentials as the deputy governorship candidate, well within INEC’s stipulated window. Unfortunately, a technical glitch occurred at the end of the National Headquarters of our party during the submission process, resulting in the incorrect name appearing on the final list.

“We are currently actively engaged with INEC officials to rectify this issue immediately and our team has provided all requisite documentation demonstrating Alhaji Kadiri’s valid nomination. We have been following-up with INEC diligently, to ensure it updates its candidate list with the accurate information.

“We recognise the anxiety this error may cause, but urge our supporters to remain calm and steadfast in their commitment to our party’s vision. Your unwavering support and activism have been invaluable thus far, and we need you to continue spreading awareness of our platform and championing the positive change we represent.

“The Labour Party is determined to contest the forthcoming September 21, Edo State Governorship elections fairly and transparently. We should not allow this minor administrative hurdle to dampen our confidence or impede our momentum. Together, we shall overcome any obstacle, minor or major, as we continue our march towards restoring Edo State to its pride of place nationally.”