Ado, Okpokwu and Ogbadibo Federal Constituency House of Representatives aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Williams Obande Obeya, has dumped the race hours to the scheduled party primaries.
Obande’s decision was disclosed in a statement issued Friday night and it followed extensive consultations, deep personal reflection and prayers, the statement said.
The aspirant said that he had earlier announced in Ogbadibo but later decided not to partake in the primary election on Saturday after further consultations with his associates and family members.
He said the political journey has brought him closer to the people of Enone and further boosted his passion to serve the constituency.
However, he observed that the pursuit of the ambition had taken up valuable time which could have been spent with his family, particularly his wife and children.
He also suggested that the main process seemed to have been completed prior, saying that the outcome was already decided.
Obande insisted he was leaving the contest peacefully and without resentment despite his concerns.
“I am bowing out with my dignity intact because I know I came into this race with sincerity, love and a genuine desire to serve Enone,” he said.
He thanked his supporters, political associates, friends and family members for their encouragement and unwavering support during the campaign period.
The former aspirant pleaded with them to respect his decision, insisting that it was taken in the best interest of his family, personal peace and integrity.
Obande also stressed that his withdrawal from the contest does not mean end of his commitment to the political and developmental future of Enone.
He said he still wants to be actively involved in shaping the leadership path of the constituency in the run-up to the general election.
He said he believes God may be calling him to another path of service for the good of the people.
The statement reads, “My dear and beloved people of Enone, after deep reflection, sincere prayers and wide consultations, I have come to a difficult but clear decision.
“I hereby withdraw unconditionally from the race for the House of Representatives and also declare that I will not be taking part in the party primaries slated for tomorrow.
“I was not even sure of making my declaration in Ogbadibo today, this decision was not yet made, it came after further reflection, prayers and consultations afterwards. This journey has been an emotional and enlightening one, bringing me closer to our people and strengthening my desire to serve.
“However, I have also come to realize that this ambition has taken precious time from me and my precious family, my beloved wife and my lovely children, time I can never recover. The Bible says in Ecclesiastes 3:1, “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.” Proverbs 19:21 also says, “Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”
“Importantly, I must also tell the truth: tomorrow’s primary, as everyone knows, is a foregone conclusion, but I will leave with my head held high, knowing I came with sincerity, love, and real commitment to Enone.
“I do not turn away in bitterness but in wisdom, obedience and to keep my dignity and peace of mind. I thank all my supporters, friends and family for standing by me, believing in me and walking this journey with me.
“I know this decision might come as a shock or disappointment to some of you, but please, trust me, I have made it in my best interest, for my family and for the preservation of my dignity.
I remain committed to the progress, unity and future of Enone and I believe that God is redirecting me to another form of service as a kingmaker who will still help shape the leadership that will represent our people in the general election.
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