The Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR) has responded to recent allegations of hypocrisy against Peter Obi, following his endorsement of Labour Party’s gubernatorial candidate in Edo State, Barr. Olumide Akpata. The POMR, through its spokesman, Ibrahim Umar, defended Obi’s support for Akpata, stressing that it is based on democratic principles, competence, and the will of the people, rather than political zoning.
In a statement released on Thursday, Umar explained that the Labour Party in Edo State did not adopt any formal zoning arrangement for the governorship position. He noted that delegates from across all local government areas in the state, including Edo Central, freely and democratically elected Akpata as their preferred candidate.
“Peter Obi’s commitment to democracy means he respects the will of the people when it is based on competence and track record, not political calculations. He remains consistent in his principle of zoning but will not impose it where the people, through their democratic process, have made a choice,” Umar said.
According to POMR, Obi’s opponents have resorted to attacking him over his support for Akpata in an attempt to shift focus away from the real issues affecting Edo State. However, Obi has maintained his stance, emphasizing the need to prioritize leadership qualities and the capacity to drive positive change.
Umar further stated that Akpata’s candidacy resonates with Edo’s youth population, citing his energy, forward-thinking mentality, and track record of service. “Obi’s support for Akpata is rooted in the candidate’s ability to deliver results and his appeal to the aspirations of the people, particularly the youth,” Umar added.
As the Edo gubernatorial election approaches, POMR reiterated its call for a level playing field and urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to uphold democratic standards by ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections.
POMR dismissed the attacks on Obi’s support for Akpata as a distraction, urging those involved to focus on the substantive issues affecting Edo State and let the voters decide who their next governor will be.
“Our principal’s message remains clear: the people of Edo should be allowed to decide who governs them, and the election should be about the candidate’s competence, not irrelevant narratives,” Umar concluded.
