The Governorship candidate for the New Nigeria People’s Party, Hon. Olugbenga Edema, has firmly denied any alliance with the governor-elect, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and dismissed claims that the party had endorsed the current administration.
In a statement issued in Akure, Edema clarified that neither he nor any representative of the party had attended a recent meeting where political parties allegedly pledged support for Aiyedatiwa’s administration.
Last Friday, the Ondo State government announced that candidates and chairmen from 13 political parties that participated in the gubernatorial election had accepted the election results and vowed to support the governor-elect. The meeting, which took place at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Akure, included parties such as Accord, Action Alliance, Allied Peoples Movement, NNPP, and others.
However, Edema rejected the assertion, stating, “Neither I nor anyone from the NNPP attended the meeting where support for Governor Aiyedatiwa was pledged. The party has not endorsed the current administration, and any claims suggesting otherwise should be disregarded.”
He also highlighted that the NNPP is engaged in an ongoing legal challenge concerning the eligibility of the All Progressives Congress to field candidates in the election, under Suit No. FHC/AK/CS/103/2024. Edema urged the public to ignore any insinuations regarding the NNPP’s involvement in the alleged endorsements.
Reaffirming the party’s commitment to democracy and the welfare of Ondo State, Edema stated, “Our focus remains on upholding democratic principles and advocating for the people. The NNPP will continue to pursue its values and vision for the state.”
Edema also underscored the importance of political parties engaging in meaningful dialogue rather than merely offering endorsements, reiterating the NNPP’s steadfast dedication to its ideals.