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 contained in a statement issued Friday night and the move followed wide consultations, deep personal reflection and prayers, the statement said.
The aspirant said he earlier declared in Ogbadibo but later decided not to participate in Saturday’s primary election after further consultation with associates and family members.
He said the political journey has brought him closer to the people of Enone and further increased his passion to serve the constituency.
However, he noted that the quest for the ambition had taken valuable time which could have been spent with his family, his wife and children in particular.
He also said that the main process appeared to have been completed beforehand, adding that the outcome was already decided.
Obande said he was walking away from the contest with no bitterness and peacefully, even though he had 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 throughout the campaign period.
The former aspirant pleaded with them to respect his decision, saying it was taken in the best interest of his family, personal peace and integrity.
Obande also noted 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 influencing the leadership trajectory of the constituency in the lead-up to the general election.
He said he believes God may be calling him to another path of service for the benefit 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 therefore withdraw unconditionally from the race for the House of Representatives and also state that I shall not be participating in the party primaries scheduled 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. It has been an emotional and enlightening journey that has brought me closer to our people and strengthened 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.” It also says in Proverbs 19:21, “Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”
“Importantly, I must also speak 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 for 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 for some of you, but please trust me, I have made this decision in my best interest, for my family and for the preservation of my dignity.
I am still 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.
