Labour Party Elects Anderson As Gov Candidate, Rejects Akpata

Times Newspaper


Daud Olatunji

In a significant turn of events, the Lamidi Apapa-led Labour Party has chosen Uwadiae Asemota Anderson, a seasoned lawyer and Managing Partner of Neplus Ultra, as its gubernatorial candidate for Edo state.


The decision was made during the party primaries held at the Golden Tulip Hotel Etete, GRA Benin City, Edo state.

Anderson secured a resounding affirmation with 188 votes, showcasing strong support within the party.

The primaries were conducted by Chief Electoral Officer, Comrade Roland Daramola, and the Secretary of the electoral committee, Bishop Favour Reuben.

However, a twist occurred as another candidate, Olumide Akpata, emerged from the Julius Abire-led Labour Party, declaring victory with 316 votes in a separate exercise held in Benin City. This conflicting outcome led to a heated dispute within the party.


National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Abayomi Arabambi, expressed dissatisfaction, denouncing Akpata’s candidacy as “ultra vires, non and void,” citing legal judgments from the Federal High Court in Owerri, the Court of Appeal in Owerri, and the Supreme Court in Abuja.

Arabambi questioned Akpata’s legitimacy and alleged ties to the PDP, emphasizing the party’s commitment to upholding court rulings.

The controversy further intensified as PLATFORM TIMES obtained court documents affirming the restraint of Abure, the candidate from the Abire-led faction.

A Federal High Court in Imo state, the Court of Appeal in Owerri, and the Supreme Court all upheld the decision that Alhaji Lamidi Apapa remains the acting chairman of the Labour Party.


Amidst these legal battles, Uwadiae Asemota Anderson stands as the undisputed candidate for the Lamidi Apapa-led faction, emphasizing stability and adherence to legal norms.

Anderson, a graduate of Ambrose Alli University, has an impressive legal background, having handled numerous election petition cases and civil matters.

His experience and track record in navigating legal challenges position him as a formidable candidate for the Labour Party in the upcoming gubernatorial election in Edo state.

As the election season unfolds, the Labour Party braces for a fierce contest, with Anderson leading the charge against other contenders.

The intricacies of party politics and legal battles add an extra layer of complexity to an already dynamic electoral landscape in Edo state.



In a recent development, Bar. Monday Ojore Mawah has been unveiled as the deputy governorship candidate for the Labour Party in the upcoming election in Edo state.

This announcement positions Mawah alongside Anderson as they embark on their political journey, representing the party in the crucial race ahead.