The leadership of the Labour Party has taken a stance against the Secretary General of the pan-Yoruba sociopolitical group, Afenifere, Chief Olusola Ebiseni, regarding the governorship candidacy in Ondo State.
In a statement released in Abuja by its National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, the LP accused Ebiseni of impersonation, proclaiming that Dr Ayo Olorunfemi is their chosen candidate for the upcoming November 16 governorship election in Ondo.
However, Ebiseni, speaking to NewsNow, affirmed that he is the legitimate LP candidate for the said election, dismissing the claims made against him by the LP.
Responding to the situation, Ifoh clarified in the statement from Abuja that Olorunfemi emerged as the flag bearer following a well-contested primary held in June in Akure, the capital of Ondo State.
The LP spokesperson pointed out that Ebiseni had also vied for the governorship ticket under the Peoples Democratic Party but was unsuccessful. He emphasized that Ebiseni had not officially left the PDP or formally associated himself with the Labour Party.
Ifoh further stated, “Chief Ebiseni is not our candidate, though he aspired to be one. INEC has completed the nomination processes, and it raises questions on how he surfaced without INEC’s involvement and the sponsorship of the Labour Party.
The LP expressed concern over individuals not affiliated with the party but believed to be connected with the Nigeria Labour Congress, allegedly supporting Ebiseni in their quest for leadership, despite the Appeal Court confirming Julius Abure as the authentic LP chairman.
Highlighting the severity of impersonation in Nigeria, the LP urged law enforcement agencies to apprehend anyone engaged in or supporting such practices.
Asserting confidence in their candidate, the LP declared, “We are determined to win the Ondo governorship election with a reputable candidate who is deeply rooted in politics, a prominent labor figure, and a respected educator.”
Referring to the perceived collaboration between Ebiseni and the NLC as an attempt to hinder their success, the LP assured that they will combat this alliance through legal channels and urged party members and voters in Ondo to support Dr. Olorunfemi of the Labour Party in order to secure victory.