Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, a prominent aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Edo State governorship election scheduled for September 21, 2024, asserted on Saturday that he will not be prevented from participating in the party’s primary elections.
Reports from DAILY POST indicated that Ize-Iyamu was supposedly among the 23 aspirants disqualified from contesting the primary elections by a committee led by Professor Julius Ihonvbere in Abuja.
Speaking at Benin Airport over the weekend, Ize-Iyamu addressed his supporters and leaders from the state’s three senatorial districts, alleging that his exclusion from the primaries was a result of individuals fearing his popularity.
He dismissed the purported exclusion as a mere rumor and emphasized that he is committed to the race. Ize-Iyamu assured supporters that he would obtain the necessary forms for the primary elections and insisted that any Edo person is eligible for the ticket. He expressed confidence that the support he receives will not be in vain.
Ize-Iyamu clarified that the power to screen out any aspirant lies with the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) and not with the screening committee led by Professor Julius Ihonvbere. He announced his intention to purchase the party’s expression of interest and nomination forms next week, with assurances from some of his supporters that they would cover the expenses.
He reassured his supporters, citing the NWC’s dismissal of the committee reports and affirmation that all aspirants for the governorship race are free to acquire nomination forms.
Regarding his relationship with the former National Chairman of the party, Adams Oshiomhole, Ize-Iyamu described it as cordial, respecting Oshiomhole as a senior brother and leader of the party. He urged people not to blame Oshiomhole for any perceived wrongdoing, emphasizing that issues should be resolved within the party family.