Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, a prominent contender, has decided to withdraw from the forthcoming All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary in Edo State, scheduled for Saturday.
Ize-Iyamu’s withdrawal letter, dated February 16, 2024, was sent to the National Chairman of the party, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, with a copy to the Edo State Acting chairman of the party, Jarrett Tenebe, as reported by NewsNow.
His letter conveyed his painful decision after thorough consultations with family, friends, political associates, and supporters. He emphasized that his sacrifice was made to promote peace and unity within the party, critically needed at both state and national levels.
He expressed his initial motivation for joining the race, citing his dedication to the cause of rescuing Edo State from its current state of decay.
Despite his openness to a fair, credible, and transparent process, Ize-Iyamu commended the National Working Committee (NWC) for rectifying the false impression created by some individuals regarding the disqualification of certain aspirants, including himself, from the gubernatorial contest.
He urged the people of the state and his supporters to accept his personal decision, assuring them of his continued support and dedication to their well-being.
Furthermore, he expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the party’s National leadership for their fairness and commitment to the democratic process. He also praised the state working committee for their unbiased approach and pledged loyalty to any candidate emerging from the primary.