A former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Lucky Imasuen, has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election taking place in Edo today.
This information comes from a withdrawal letter issued by Imasuen on Saturday morning.
Imasuen was among the 12 governorship aspirants who underwent screening and received clearance from a committee established by the APC National Working Committee.
In his withdrawal letter addressed to his supporters, Imasuen stated that he was stepping back from the primaries to prioritize peace and unity.
He explained that his decision was influenced by the party’s leadership’s determination to allocate the governorship ticket to the Central Senatorial District.
The letter read, “I have come to the conclusion that since members of our National Working Committee, in their wisdom, have expressed their preference for zoning the governorship position to Edo Central Senatorial District, it is wise to align with the decision of the party.
“I am immensely grateful for your unwavering support and belief in me, throughout this journey. Your dedication and passion have been the driving force behind my campaign.
“While this decision was not made lightly, I trust that you will understand, and continue to support our party, as we work together towards our shared goals.
“From the foregoing, I am ready to support whoever emerges as our candidate in the primary election.”
In an undated withdrawal letter sent on Friday to the national chairman of the party, Abdullahi Ganduje, and copied to the acting state chairman of the party, Jarrett Tenebe, to inform the party of his decision, Ize-Iyamu expressed the difficulty of his choice.
Ize-Iyamu had been among the leading contenders before his unexpected withdrawal from the race, surprising many.