From Tony Osauzo, Benin

Frontline All Progressives Congress (APC) aspirant for the Edo State Governorship election, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, yesterday, announced his withdrawal from the race. 

Ize-Iyamu personally read to journalists in Benin the letter of withdrawal he wrote to the National Chairman of the party, titled “Dear Sir, Letter of Withdrawal” and copied to the state Chairman of the party, Jarret Tenebe,.

He pledged that he and his supporters shall support any candidate that emerges in the primary election of the party holding today in the state.

“Few months ago, after extensively interacting with family, friends, political associates, and supporters, I joined the 2024 Edo State gubernatorial race as a result of my passion and commitment to the cause of rescuing Edo State from its current condition of decrepitude.

“I entered the contest as a progressive democrat, with an open mind to keenly contest and accept the result of a process that is fair, credible and transparent, I appreciate the commendable effort made by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the APC to correct the erroneous impression maliciously created by certain persons that some aspirants including myself had been disqualified from the gubernatorial contest. The NWC constituted the authentic screening committee and all 12 aspirants who purchased and completed the nomination forms were successfully screened and subsequently issued clearance certificate. This step was praiseworthy and helped in restoring our integrity in the eyes of the public.

“Having being cleared to contest, I regrettably wish to announce my withdrawal from the race. Although painful, this decision has become imperative after an exhaustive consultation with my family, friends, political associates and supporters I make this sacrifice in the interest of the peace and unity that the party desperately requires at both state and national levels, I humbly appeal to the good people of Edo State to accept my decision which is very personal and I promise to be there for them at all times.”

He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and other party leaders for their fairness and commitment to the democratic process.