The media office of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) frontrunner for the Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency seat, Barrister Joy Okpainmo, has dismissed allegations of budget padding circulating in a video by Andy Obeya Adaudu, described the claims as false, misleading, and politically motivated.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Joy Okpainmo Media Office (JOMO) said the allegation was a familiar tactic employed by political opponents unsettled by Okpainmo’s growing popularity across the constituency.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Barr. Joy Okpainmo is not a member of the House of Representatives and does not have the authority to influence or pad the national budget in favour of any constituency,” the statement said. “The allegation is entirely baseless.”
The media office acknowledged Okpainmo’s professional background and experience, noting that although she previously served as a legislative aide, such a position does not grant the power to alter budgetary provisions.
JOMO also clarified that funds being used by the PDP aspirant in pursuing her political ambition are sourced from her personal savings, legal practice, family support, and her husband, who was described as “hardworking, dutiful, and fully supportive” of her aspiration.
According to the statement, Okpainmo’s rising acceptance among constituents has triggered what it termed a “campaign of calumny” by opposition camps already rejected by voters.
“Barr. Joy may not have money, but she has the people and that is what truly matters,” the statement said, expressing confidence in her prospects ahead of the 2027 general elections based on “character, intelligence, and capacity to represent effectively.”
The media office urged residents of Apa/Agatu and the general public to disregard what it described as “mischief and blackmail,” attributing the attacks to individuals opposed to women’s political participation and to leaders desperate to retain power without performance.
“Barr. Joy Okpainmo has come to stay,” the statement concluded. “No amount of lies or intimidation can overturn what God and the people have already decided.”
