Kenneth Okonkwo, a Labour Party stalwart and renowned Nollywood actor, has urged Edo State residents to embrace change by supporting Olumide Akpata in the upcoming gubernatorial election. During an interview with Politics HQ on News Central TV on Friday, he shared his perspective and political preferences, revealing his discontent with his current party and even hinting at a possible shift back to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a party he previously departed due to unmet expectations.
Amidst the Labour Party’s current controversies, including claims of financial mismanagement and calls for leadership change, Okonkwo didn’t shy away from expressing his displeasure—especially with the re-election of Julius Abure as LP’s national chairman during the Anambra State convention on March 27. He took a firm stand against the perceived secrecy surrounding the party’s operations and leadership, remarking through a tweet that “Everything about a party should be transparent and accountable. These are the tenets of democracy.”
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Okonkwo made pointed criticisms of the incumbent Governor Obaseki and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), particularly in relation to what he views as disrespect towards the cultural institution of the Oba of Benin. He called out what he described as a desecration of the royal stool by Governor Obaseki’s alleged actions towards Oba Ewuare II. Although Governor Obaseki refuted such claims regarding a legal dispute over the suspension of the Enigie, Okonkwo’s comments reflect the complex interplay between politics and traditional authority in Nigeria.
In a contentious political environment, Okonkwo’s stance is clear. As he contemplated aligning with APC, his call to support Olumide Akpata suggests his belief in new leadership and direction for the people of Edo State. His outspokenness exemplifies the diverse and often heated nature of political discourse in Nigeria, as the country approaches its gubernatorial polls.
