The Labour Party (LP) has dismissed allegations made by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, claiming the All Progressives Congress (APC) government paid bribes to opposition party leaders. Atiku, speaking at a national conference on democracy in Abuja on Monday, accused the APC of offering N50 million each to opposition figures to fuel crises within their parties.

In response, LP’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, issued a statement categorically rejecting the claims. The statement emphasized that the party’s leadership has “never received a dime from any individual, group, organization, or government” outside of Labour Party members. The LP also criticized Atiku for making serious accusations without providing evidence, calling it an irresponsible move.

The statement further expressed shock at Atiku’s remarks, calling them “wild, unguarded, and unfounded,” especially given his political experience. The LP stressed that, as a party committed to the ideals of opposition, it had operated with financial integrity and transparency, relying solely on internally generated funds.

Highlighting the party’s dedication to democratic values, the LP reminded Atiku of the importance of a strong opposition in a democracy, asserting that democracy without opposition becomes autocracy. They called on Atiku to present concrete proof for his claims, warning that without evidence, his allegations would be seen as politically motivated and unreliable.