A House of Representatives aspirant for Ado, Okpokwu and Ogbadibo Federal Constituency on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Williams Obande Obeya, has withdrawn from the race hours before the party’s primaries.
PrimeTimes Nigeria reports that Obande announced his decision in a statement released on Friday night.
The aspirant said his withdrawal came after extensive consultations, deep reflection and prayers.
He explained that although he had earlier declared his ambition in Ogbadibo, he later decided not to participate in Saturday’s primary election following further discussions with family members and associates.
According to him, the political journey strengthened his passion to serve the people of Enone.
Obande, however, hinted that the outcome of the primary appeared to have been decided in advance. Despite his concerns, he said he was leaving the race peacefully.
“I am stepping aside with my dignity intact because I know I entered this race with sincerity, love, and a genuine desire to serve Enone,” he stated.
Aspirant Thanks Supporters
The former aspirant thanked his supporters, political associates, friends and family members for standing by him during the campaign.
He urged them to respect his decision, insisting it was taken in the interest of his family, personal peace and integrity.
Obande maintained that his withdrawal from the contest did not mean abandoning his commitment to the political and developmental future of Enone.
He said he would continue to play an active role in shaping the leadership direction of the constituency ahead of the general election.
The former aspirant added that he believed God might be redirecting him toward 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 hereby withdraw unconditionally from the race for the House of Representatives and also state that I will not be participating in the party primaries scheduled for tomorrow.
“Even as I was doing my declaration in Ogbadibo today, this decision was not yet made; it came only after further reflection, prayers, and consultations afterwards. This journey has been deeply emotional and enlightening, 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. As the Bible says in Ecclesiastes 3:1, “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven,” and in Proverbs 19:21, “Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.
“It is also important for me to speak honestly: tomorrow’s primary, as widely understood, appears to be a predetermined process, but I will walk away with my head held high, knowing I came with sincerity, love, and genuine commitment to Enone.
“I do not withdraw in bitterness, but in wisdom, obedience, and to preserve my dignity and peace of mind. I thank all my supporters, friends, and family for standing with me, believing in me, and walking this journey with me.
“I know this decision may come as a shock or disappointment to some of you, but I ask that you 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 God is redirecting me to a different form of service as a kingmaker who will still help shape the leadership that will represent our people in the general election.”