Exclusive: Imasuen Pulls Out of Edo APC Governorship Primary Amidst Controversy
Former Deputy Governor Cites Zoning Dispute and Pursuit of Party Unity as Reasons for Withdrawal
In a dramatic turn of events, former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Lucky Imasuen, has decided to withdraw from the highly anticipated All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election, sending shockwaves through the political landscape of the state. Imasuen’s abrupt exit comes amidst swirling controversy and mounting tensions within the party ranks.
Imasuen, once considered a formidable contender in the race, made his intentions clear in a carefully crafted withdrawal letter released to the public on Saturday morning. The letter, addressed to his loyal supporters, cited the imperative of peace and unity within the party as the driving force behind his decision. However, the underlying issue of zoning appears to have played a pivotal role in Imasuen’s unexpected withdrawal.
The decision to zone the governorship ticket to the Central Senatorial District, a move endorsed by the APC National Working Committee, evidently did not sit well with Imasuen and other affected aspirants. This contentious issue has ignited a firestorm of debate and discontent within the party, exposing deep-seated divisions and rivalries that threaten to undermine its cohesion.
“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,” Imasuen stated in his withdrawal letter.
The announcement of Imasuen’s withdrawal comes hot on the heels of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu’s shocking decision to exit the race, further complicating an already tumultuous electoral landscape. Ize-Iyamu, a prominent figure within the party, cited personal reasons for his withdrawal, leaving many supporters and political analysts perplexed and speculating about the underlying motivations behind his sudden departure.
As the dust settles and the party grapples with the fallout from these high-profile withdrawals, all eyes are now firmly fixed on the remaining contenders vying for the coveted APC governorship ticket. With the primary election looming large on the horizon, the stakes have never been higher, and the political fortunes of Edo State hang in the balance. Will unity prevail, or will discord and division ultimately dictate the outcome of this fiercely contested contest? Only time will tell.
