All Progressives Congress candidate for governor of Edo State and representative of Edo State in the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB),Ehiozuwa Agbonayinma,declared his retirement from the race for governor yesterday.
Speaking to party executives, leaders, and members of the Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of the APC, Agbonayinma, a former member of the House of Representatives, explained that he decided to withdraw due to the tragic death of his 23-year-old son, Osazuwa Michael Agbonayinma, in the United States of America.
It has become pertinent for me to use this medium to address our campaign team, our teeming supporters, the esteemed leaders of our great party, APC, and the good people of Edo State for their unwavering support. Over a year ago, I decided to give serious consideration to the calls from well meaning Edolites at home, and in the diaspora, on the dire need to change the political narrative in Edo State, while expressing confidence in my ability to champion the cause of moving Edo State forward.
“So I began consultations with my family, friends, close allies, leaders of our great party, APC, traditional rulers, religious leaders, opinion leaders, and media influencers across Edo State, and, indeed across the nation, on my interest to contest in the 2024 Edo Governorship race. To the glory of God, the positive reception has been overwhelming. I am eternally grateful for the individual and collective efforts for this success.
“At the height of this success, my family suffered a very tragic development. My 23 years old and very promising son, Osazuwa Michael Agbonayinma (ZUWA), was fatally shot in Houston, Texas, USA. I have just returned from the United States after my son was buried. This is a very bitter experience that cannot be wished even upon an enemy.
“Presently, my family and I are highly devastated. And I am not in the right frame of mind to continue any serious political campaign at this time. Consequently, after due consultations and consideration, I am suspending my Gubernatorial campaign at this time. We need some quiet time to grieve and heal”, he said.
Agbonayinma expressed optimism that the upcoming APC Gubernatorial Primaries would be conducted fairly, ensuring each aspirant receives an equal and unbiased chance to participate in the party’s governorship primaries. He added “And as a loyal party man, I call on all leaders and supporters of our great party, APC , to fall behind the party flag bearer that would eventually emerge from a free, fair and credible process such that APC will go into the Governorship election as a united party”.
