The All Progressives Congress (APC) has thrown its weight behind its Edo State governorship candidate, Monday Okpebholo, for his decision to selectively choose his media engagements.

This comes after Okpebholo snubbed several interview requests, including one from Arise News, thereby leading to criticism from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

In a statement released on Monday, the APC Campaign Council clarified that Okpebholo is not avoiding interviews entirely but is rather being selective about the platforms he engages with.

The council accused Arise News of bias and questioned its professionalism, stating that Okpebholo “has no obligation to grant an interview to a platform that has already shown its bias.”

The APC demanded a $1 million fee from Arise News before Okpebholo agrees to a live interview, describing it as a test of the station’s seriousness and commitment to impartiality.

The integrity and principles of our candidate are not for sale, but such an offer might at least demonstrate a seriousness on their part that has thus far been sorely lacking,” the party said.

The Edo State governorship election is scheduled for 21 September 2024.