Two APC guber candidates emerge in Edo … Ize-Iyamu hails Okpevbolo emergence as candidate

A former Secretary to the Edo state government, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, has congratulated Senator Monday Okpebholo as the Governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

Confusion had trailed yesterday’s APC governorship primary election as two candidates emerged for the September 21, 2024 governorship election.

Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, who is also the Chairman of the APC Primary Election Committee, had announced Dennis Idahosa, with 40, 453 votes, as the winner of the governorship primary held at Protea Hotel, while the returning officer, Stanley Ugboaja declared Monday Okpebholo winner with 12,145 at Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu’s residence.

Ize-Iyamu, in a statement, said, “Heartfelt congratulations on your emergence as the APC flag bearer in the gubernatorial primary election held on February 17, 2024.

“Your victory is a testament to the hard work, dedication, resilience, and trust reposed in you by the members of our great party.

“As you undertake this significant role, I am confident that your wealth of experience, unwavering commitment, and vision for a better Edo State will steer us toward success in the gubernatorial election come September.

“With you, the APC in Edo State is undoubtedly well-positioned to reclaim the state and set her on a path of holistic development.

“I sincerely wish you the unity, peace, and tranquillity required for the fulfilment of the aspirations of the good people of Edo State. Best regards.”

Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu was a frontline aspirant of the party until he formally withdrew from the race.

Ize-Iyamu announced his withdrawal on Friday in a statement made available to journalists in Benin, the State capital.

The statement was addressed to the party’s National Chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and copied to the Acting State Chairman of the party, Mr Jarrett Tenebe.