The Edo State Labour Party governorship candidate, Olumide Akpata, has told the state voters to vote for him in Saturday’s election.
Olumide Akpata said Saturday’s governorship election is an opportunity for Edo citizens to vote for the state of their dreams and the future their children deserve.
In a statement, on Thursday, the former president of Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Akpata said he would develop the state across all sectors if elected.
It read: “As the sun sets on this eve of our crucial election, and as campaigns end by midnight today, I write to you with a heart full of gratitude and hope. In the next 48 hours, on Saturday, 21 September 2024, we stand at the threshold of a new dawn for our beloved Edo State.
“First and foremost, I want to express my profound gratitude to each and every one of you. Over these past months, as we have traversed the length and breadth of our great State -from the vibrant and lively streets of Benin City to the serene villages of Akoko-Edo; from the historic town of Auchi to the bustling markets of Ekpoma; from the riverine community of Gelegele-gbene to the north-eastern town of Uromi – you have welcomed us, the Labour Party team, with open arms and open hearts.
“Your warmth, your candour, and your unwavering spirit have been the fuel that has driven our campaign forward. In town halls and village squares, in homes and on farms, you have shared with us your dreams, your challenges, and your vision for a better Edo State. For this, I am eternally grateful.
“To the young students in Ambrose Alli University who spoke of their aspirations for quality education, to the farmer in llushi who yearns for better agricultural support, to the market woman in Jattu who dreams of a thriving economy, I want you to know that we have heard you. Your voices, your stories, have shaped our Labour Party vision and strengthened our resolve to serve you.”
He continued, ” Saturday’s election is more than just a political exercise. It is a referendum on the future we want for ourselves and for generations to come. It is about deciding whether we will continue down the well-worn path of unfulfilled promises, or whether we will chart a new course towards progress, transparency, and genuine development by choosing the Labour Party.
“As you prepare to cast your votes, I urge you to reflect on the Edo State of your dreams. Envision a State where: Our children receive world-class education in well-equipped schools. Our hospitals are centres of excellence, accessible to all. Our farmers have the support they need to feed our State and beyond.
“Our young people find ample opportunities for meaningful employment. Our elders live out their golden years in dignity and comfort.
“This vision is within our grasp. But achieving it requires courage – the courage to choose change, to embrace a new way of governance that puts the people first. This is what the Labour Party stands for.
“I stand before you not just as a candidate, but as a fellow Edo son who shares your pains, your joys, and your aspirations.”
Akpata appealed, “As we approach this pivotal moment in our history, I ask for your trust and your vote for the Labour Party. But more than that, I ask for your continued engagement and partnership. For the task of rebuilding and repositioning our State is one that requires all hands on deck.
“Let us make Saturday a day that our children and grand-children will look back on with pride – the day Edo State chose progress over stagnation, unity over division, and hope over fear. Let it be the day you entrusted your future to the Labour Party.
“As you step into the polling booth, remember: your vote for the Labour Party is not just a vote for me or for a party. It is a vote for the Edo State of our dreams, a vote for the future our children deserve. It is a vote that says, “Enough is enough. We choose a new path”.
“And for those wondering if there is any point coming out to vote and if their votes will count, and be protected. My message to you’s simple, please come out, do your part and leave the rest to us. Without your votes, there is nothing to protect. Do this, not just for yourself, but for the next generation.”