Less than forty-eight hours to the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries in Edo State, a leading aspirant on the platform of the party, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu has stepped aside, citing “undue interference by Comrade Senator Adams Oshiomhole.”
The former secretary to Edo State, who made the announcement at a press conference at his Benin City residence, described his decision to quit the race as painful but pledged to support any of the APC governorship candidates who would emerge in the today’s (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, he said he took the decision after due consultations with friends, family and political associates. He however commended President Bola Tinubu, and the national leadership of the party for their fairness and commitment to the democratic process.
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“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 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,” he said.
