Adekunbi Ero
A former governorship candidate in Edo State and pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, (RCCG) Osagie Ize-Iyamu, has pleaded with the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to ensure integrity, transparency and impartiality in the conduct of its forthcoming primary election, insisting that party members must be allowed to decide freely without fear, coercion or intimidation.
About six aspirants, including Ize-Iyamu, are scrambling for the Edo South senatorial district ticket on the platform of the ruling APC. The list includes incumbent senator Neda Imasuen, Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, a former member of the House of Representatives and governorship aspirant; Senator Matthew Urhoghide; Lucky Imasuen, a former deputy governor; and Valentine Asuen.
In a personally signed statement on Wednesday, Ize-Iyamu cautioned that party members must be allowed to decide freely without fear, coercion or intimidation, noting that the credibility of the process would determine party unity and public trust.
In the statement, he said, “If primaries are to be conducted, they must be transparent and fair. The imposition of candidates, whether direct or subtle, undermines party unity and erodes public trust.”
He further cautioned against undue influence, insisting that directing appointees or stakeholders on whom to support runs contrary to democratic ideals.
According to him, “Directing appointees or stakeholders on whom to support is inconsistent with the democratic ideals upon which our party stands.”
While expressing confidence in the party’s leadership, he added, “We are confident that the leadership of our great party will do what is right. Let party members decide freely, without fear, coercion or intimidation.”
Dispelling speculations about his political future, Ize-Iyamu declared that he would not abandon the APC as being suggested in some quarters, including by an individual in the media.
He stated categorically, “I have no intention of leaving the APC, now or ever, regardless of the circumstances. No disagreement, no provocation, and no temporary setback will drive me from a house I helped to build.”
The APC stalwart reaffirmed his loyalty to the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, commending his efforts at repositioning the country, while also commending Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, for what he described as a determined push toward infrastructure development in the state.
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