Less than forty eight hours to the Edo All Progressives Congress, APC, governorship primaries, a leading aspirant of the party, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu has stepped aside from the February 17, 2024 APC primary election, citing “undue interference by Comrade Senator Adams Oshiomhole.”.
The former Secretary to the Edo State, who made the announcement at a press conference at his Bein City residence, described his decision to quit the race as painful. He however pledged to support any of the APC governorship candidates who will emerge in the tomorrow, (Saturday’s) primaries.
The astute politician it was gathered has directed his supporters in the 192 political wards in Edo state to support the candidacy of Senator Monday Okpebholo, the senator representing Edo Central Senatorial District
In a letter he read before newsmen said he took the decision after due consultation with friends, family and political associates. He however commended President Bola Tinubu, and the National leadership of the party’s leadership for their fairness and commitment to the democratic process.
He said, “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 twelve aspirants who purchased and completed the nomination forms were successfully screened and subsequently issued clearance certificates. This step was praise worthy and helped in restoring our integrity in the eyes of the public.
“Having been 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.
“Thankfully. I acknowledge the fatherly role of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, as well as the party’s National leadership for their fairness and commitment to the democratic process.
It was also gathered that dying minutes to the governorship race other aspirants may throw in the towel for a particular candidate.
APC aspirants in the race included, Hon Dennis Idahosa, Prince Clem Agba, Monday Okpebholo, Lucky Imasuen, Hon. Anamero Dekeri, Gideon Ikhine and David Imuse, a retired colonel.
Others are Major Gen. Charles Ehigie Airhiavbere, (rtd), Oserheimen Osunbor, Blessing Agbomhere, and Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe.