John Dumelo, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate for Ayawaso West Wuogon, has extended an official apology to his opponent, Lydia Alhassan, the current Member of Parliament (MP) and New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate, for his controversial comments linking her to the death of her late husband.

Mr. Dumelo’s apology follows a strong backlash from the Widows Association in Ayawaso West Wuogon, which criticised him for making “egregious and unsubstantiated” remarks.

In a recent media appearance, Mr. Dumelo implied that Lydia Alhassan bore some responsibility for her husband’s death, who previously held the seat as MP before his passing.

In a Facebook post, Mr. Dumelo wrote: “I apologise and unreservedly retract my previous comments. I extend my sincere and unconditional apologies to Hon. Lydia Alhassan for my remarks during the Media General public engagement (Community Manifesto) concerning the death of her husband.”

He further clarified that his comments were made in response to personal attacks from supporters of Lydia Alhassan, who also serves as the Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources.

"My comments were in response to personal attacks by supporters of the honourable minister, including false allegations regarding my mother’s death. However, I recognize that my reaction was inappropriate,” he admitted.

Mr. Dumelo reiterated his dedication to the development of Ayawaso West Wuogon, pledging to work tirelessly for positive change in the constituency.