Ehiozuwa Agbonayinma, one of the 12 All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirants in Edo State, has officially withdrawn from the race, citing the tragic loss of his 23-year-old son, Osazuwa Agbonayinma, who was fatally shot and killed in Houston, Texas, USA.
Addressing his supporters and party members in the Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, Agbonayinma expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming support he received during his gubernatorial campaign.
He acknowledged the positive reception from well-wishers and his readiness to champion the cause of moving Edo State forward.
However, the devastating loss of his son has prompted Agbonayinma to suspend his political activities, emphasizing that he is not in the right frame of mind to continue a serious campaign at this time.
He returned from the United States after the burial of his son and emphasized the need for quiet time to grieve and heal.
While thanking his supporters for their moral, financial, and spiritual support, Agbonayinma urged them to stay united and back whoever emerges as the APC flagbearer in the forthcoming primary election.
“As a loyal party man, I call on all leaders and supporters of our great party, APC, to fall behind the party flag-bearer that would eventually emerge from a free, fair and credible process such that APC will go into the governorship election as a united party,” he said.
He expressed optimism that the primary process will be free, fair, and credible, ensuring a level playing field for all aspirants.
With Agbonayinma’s withdrawal, 11 aspirants remain in the race for the APC governorship primary in Edo State, scheduled for Saturday.
The remaining candidates will compete for the party’s ticket in the quest to represent the APC in the upcoming gubernatorial election.