Benue APC Primary Controversy: Williams Obande Withdraws, Alleges Imposed Outcome

Ado, Okpokwu and Ogbadibo Federal Constituency House of Representatives aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Williams Obande Obeya, has dumped the race hours to the scheduled party primaries.

Obande’s decision was disclosed in a statement issued Friday night and it followed extensive consultations, deep personal reflection and prayers, the statement said.

The aspirant said that he had earlier announced in Ogbadibo but later decided not to partake in the primary election on Saturday after further consultations with his associates and family members.

He said that the political journey has brought him closer to the people of Enone and further increased his passion to serve the constituency.

However, he noted the quest for the ambition had taken valuable time that could have been spent with his family, his wife and children in particular.

He added that the main process seemed to have been completed in advance and that the result was already decided.

Obande said he had worries but was walking away from the contest with no bitterness and peacefully.

“I am bowing out with my dignity intact because I know I came into this race with sincerity, love and a genuine desire to serve Enone,” he said.

He thanked his supporters, political associates, friends and family members for their encouragement and support throughout the campaign period.

The former aspirant appealed to them to respect his decision, taken in the best interest of his family, personal peace and integrity.

Obande also said that his withdrawal from the contest does not mean end of his commitment to the political and developmental future of Enone.

He said he still wants to be actively involved in shaping the leadership path of the constituency in the run-up to the general election.

He said he believes God may be calling him to another path of service for the good of the people.

“My beloved and dear people of Enone, after deep reflection, sincere prayers and broad consultations I have come to a difficult but clear decision.

“Therefore I am withdrawing unconditionally from the race for the House of Representatives and also stating that I will not be taking part in the party primaries scheduled for tomorrow.

“I was not even sure of making my declaration in Ogbadibo today, this decision was not yet made, it came after further reflection, prayers and consultations afterwards. It has been an emotional and enlightening journey that has made me closer to our people and increased my desire to serve.

But I have also come to realize that this ambition has robbed me of precious time with my precious family, my beloved wife and my lovely children, time I can never recover. The Bible says in Ecclesiastes 3:1, “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.” Proverbs 19:21 also says, “Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”

“Importantly, I must also tell the truth: tomorrow’s primary, as everyone knows, is a foregone conclusion, but I will leave with my head held high, knowing I came with sincerity, love, and real commitment to Enone.

I do not turn away in bitterness but in wisdom, obedience and for my dignity and peace of mind. “I want to thank all my supporters, my friends and my family for standing by me, for believing in me, and for walking this journey with me.

I know this may come as a shock or disappointment for some of you, but please trust me, I have made this decision in my best interest, for my family and for the preservation of my dignity.

I am still committed to the progress, unity and future of Enone and I believe that God is redirecting me to another form of service as a kingmaker who will still help shape the leadership that will represent our people in the general election.”