Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, a prominent governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), made a significant announcement on Friday, deciding to withdraw his ambition to contest in the party primaries scheduled for the following day. The primaries aimed to select a candidate to represent the party in the upcoming September 21 governorship election in Edo State.
Ize-Iyamu, who has previously contested twice for the governorship position under both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and APC, made this decision after extensive consultations with his family, political associates, and supporters. Despite his withdrawal, he pledged his full support to any candidate chosen by the party.
In his statement, Ize-Iyamu expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his fatherly role and to the APC National Working Committee (NWC) for constituting an authentic screening committee, which ensured a fair and transparent screening process for all aspirants.
He highlighted the importance of unity within the party at both the state and national levels, stating that his decision to withdraw was made in the interest of peace and unity. Ize-Iyamu appealed to the people of Edo State to accept his decision, emphasizing that it was a personal sacrifice.
Acknowledging the support he received from his family, friends, supporters, and campaign organization, Ize-Iyamu expressed his gratitude for their unwavering commitment. He concluded by reiterating his loyalty to the party and pledging his support to whichever candidate emerges from the primary election.