Olumide Akpata, the Labour Party's 2024 Edo State gubernatorial candidate and former Nigerian Bar Association president, has firmly rejected reports of defecting to the All Progressives Congress, reaffirming his commitment to the opposition party amid escalating political speculation ahead of 2027 elections.

In a statement posted on his social media Tuesday, September 16, 2025, Akpata labeled the claims "malicious, mischievous, and utterly false," attributing them to efforts to mislead the public. He highlighted social media's role in amplifying disinformation, urging followers to verify information before sharing. "I state without equivocation that I have neither contemplated, discussed, nor effected a defection to the APC and for the avoidance of doubt, I have no intention of ever joining the APC," Akpata declared.

Akpata, who joined Labour in March 2023 and won its primary before losing to APC's Monday Okpebholo, recalled his grassroots involvement, including attending ward meetings in Oredo. He expressed disappointment at how readily many accepted the rumors, calling for diligence in an era of deepfakes. "No matter how many times a lie is shared, it will never become the truth," he added.

The denial follows a wave of defection speculation affecting figures like Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke, and ex-Jigawa Governor Sule Lamido, all of whom have reaffirmed their party loyalties. Anambra Governor Charles Soludo similarly dismissed rumors of switching from APGA.