Lucky Imasuen, a former Deputy Governor of Edo State, has made a significant decision ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship direct primary election scheduled for today. Imasuen has formally withdrawn his candidacy from the race, a move that comes just hours before the commencement of the primary election process.
According to reports, Imasuen conveyed his decision to withdraw through a letter released on Saturday morning. The letter, addressed to his “highly-esteemed supporters,” cited the interest of peace and unity as the driving force behind his withdrawal from the race.
Imasuen, who was among the 14 governorship aspirants cleared by a committee constituted by the APC National Working Committee (NWC), expressed his gratitude to his supporters for their unwavering commitment throughout his campaign. He highlighted the decision of the party leadership regarding the zoning of the governorship position to Edo Central Senatorial District as a significant factor in his withdrawal.
In his letter, Imasuen stated: “I have come to the conclusion that since members of our National Working Committee (NWC), 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.”
Acknowledging the support and dedication of his followers, Imasuen emphasized his readiness to stand behind the party’s chosen candidate in the primary election. He reassured his supporters of his continued commitment to the APC’s objectives and urged them to do the same.
Imasuen’s withdrawal follows a similar decision made by another prominent APC figure, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, who announced his withdrawal from the governorship primary on Friday. These developments signal a shifting landscape in the APC’s gubernatorial race in Edo State, with implications for the party’s electoral strategy and prospects in the upcoming election.