The Labour Party has categorically denied rumors that its Edo State gubernatorial candidate, Olumide Akpata, has withdrawn from the race ahead of Saturday’s election.

In a statement released late Friday, the party described the claims as “entirely untrue and baseless,” attributing them to a deliberate misinformation campaign by rival parties.

According to the Labour Party, Akpata remains committed to contesting the election and leading the charge for progress in Edo State.

“The claims that Olumide Akpata has stepped down are false and aimed at confusing voters,” the statement read. “These baseless rumors are being spread by parties that have consistently failed to put the people of Edo first and now realize that the people will vote overwhelmingly for Akpata.”

The party urged supporters to disregard the misinformation and continue to rally behind Akpata’s candidacy.