Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, one of the All Progressives Congress (APC) aspirants for the September 21 governorship election in Edo State has withdrawn, ahead of Saturday’s primaries.
Ize-Iyamu said this at a news conference in Benin City on Friday.
He said that his decision to quit was painful, adding that he took the decision after due consultation with friends, family and political associates.
He, however, pledged to support any of the APC governorship aspirants who would emerge in the Saturday’s primary
Ize-Iyamu commended President Bola Tinubu and the national leadership of the party for their fairness and commitment to democratic process.
“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 certificates,” he said.
He added: ” 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.
“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”.
Ize-Iyamu’s exit had left APC with 11 aspirants, ahead of Saturday’s primaries.
They included Dennis Idahosa, Clem Agba, Monday Okpebholo, Lucky Imasuen, Anamero Dekeri, Gideon Ikhine, Col. David Imuse, retired Major Gen. Charles Airhiavbere, Oserheimen Osunbor, Blessing Agbomhere and Ernest Umakhihe.
