Ahead of the Edo State governorship election, Olumide Akpata, the Labour Party candidate has said that he is not above mistake.
Akpata said this in response to recent controversy surrounding remarks made during the Labour Party’s flag-off ceremony for the Edo State gubernatorial elections.
During his visit to the palace of the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, Akpata described himself as “a son of the palace”.
The Oba of Benin immediately corrected Akpata, saying he was an illustrious son of the soil —Edo State.
Akpata, however acknowledged the correction, stating, “I am not too proud or arrogant to acknowledge my mistakes or to accept guidance when offered, especially from the revered throne of the Oba of Benin.”
He continued: “I am compelled to issue this statement due to the utterly unacceptable reactions of some individuals who claim to be acting in my defence. I categorically condemn any conduct or language that could be deemed insulting or disrespectful towards the Oba of Benin, the embodiment of our rich cultural heritage.
“As I have repeatedly and emphatically stated, anyone who fights the Oba of Benin is also fighting me, and I will never be party to any scheme or ploy that brings disrepute to the sacred throne of the Benin Kingdom.”
Akpata further expressed his dismay at the misrepresentation of the exchange, urging for an end to such distortions. “It is imperative that this deliberate misrepresentation of the harmless and educational exchange between the Oba and myself ceases immediately,” he stated.
In his message to the people of Edo State, Akpata called for unity and respect for the traditional authority of the Benin Kingdom. “Let us unite in our reverence for the throne and work together to build a prosperous future for Edo State,” he urged.
Akpata reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the values and traditions of the Benin Kingdom, aligning his political aspirations with the preservation of cultural heritage.
“The Labour Party and I stand resolute in our determination to bring about positive change while preserving the rich cultural heritage that defines our great state,” Akpata said.
