An emergency meeting has been convened by the leadership of the Labour Party in Edo State amid mounting concerns over revelations that the party’s deputy governorship candidate, Mrs. Oluyinka Faith Alufokhai, may have submitted false information to the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.
Mrs. Alufokhai’s affidavit indicates conflicting details regarding her birth year and the year she obtained her First School Leaving Certificate, potentially jeopardizing the party’s gubernatorial ticket, according to a report from SaharaReporters.
While uncertainty looms over the fate of the LP’s candidacy, sources suggest that attempts to replace Mrs. Alufokhai may be hindered by electoral regulations barring candidate substitutions, except in cases of death or voluntary withdrawal.
In response, Mrs. Alufokhai has reportedly rebuffed calls for her withdrawal, highlighting discrepancies in her running mate, Olumide Akpata’s, affidavit regarding his allegiance to an oceanic country, Vanuatu.
Amidst accusations and counterclaims, the LP faces internal turmoil, with party members questioning the selection of Mrs. Alufokhai, who was previously dismissed from her position as Owan West Local Government Chairman.
Allegations of sabotage and political maneuvering further compound the crisis, with LP National Chairman Julius Abure and Akpata caught in a web of controversy and mistrust.
As the party battles with these challenges, the National Working Committee (NWC) has been summoned to address the precarious situation, casting a shadow over the party’s gubernatorial aspirations in Edo State.
