The Edo State chapter of the Labour Party (LP) is encountering fresh internal conflict after the issuance of a seven-day ultimatum by governorship aspirant Kenneth Imasuagbon.

Imasuagbon, also known as the “Rice Man” for his philanthropic efforts, is contesting the outcome of the Labour Party’s primary election that he lost.

Imasuagbon alleges irregularities in the ways the ward congresses that led to the selection of Olumide Akpata as the party’s flagbearer were conducted. According to him, these irregularities contradict assurances of a level playing field received from the party leadership.

In a recent statement, Imasuagbon expressed his disappointment. He said: “I want to first of all use this opportunity to thank my well-wishers and staff of Pacesetters Schools for standing by me during my political sojourn. I also extend my thanks to Edo people and my supporters across the state.

“My interest in politics is to change the narratives of Edo and improve the lives of the people. I want an Edo where jobs would be available, where food would be cheap, where our teeming unemployed youth will be meaningfully engaged, but the godfathers refused democracy to thrive in Edo.

“After 21 years in politics, I do not think it is proper or politically right for political parties to skew party primary to favour a particular candidate. I hope, one day, democracy will be allowed to thrive in Edo.

“Having worked hard in the last 21 years to impact on lives of suffering Edo people with my hard earned personal resources, it is unfortunate that anti-democratic forces would not allow the free will of the people to prevail. I am issuing a one-week ultimatum to LP leadership to reverse the recognition of Akpata as our party’s candidate. I should be declared winner.”

Imasuagbon has requested the party reverse its decision and declare him the authentic winner of the primaries within the next seven days. He has threatened law suit if his demands are not met.