Edo State Governorship Candidate of the Accord Party, Comrade Kennedy Iyere, has withdrawn from the race.
His withdrawal comes barely 24 hours to the gubernatorial election.
Iyere explained that his decision to step down is driven by a desire to contribute to solving the broader social and economic issues facing the country, especially the rising food insecurity and economic hardship affecting many Nigerians.
During his campaign, Iyere faced challenges when his running mate, Bright Enabulele, and other party members attempted to undermine his candidacy.
Enabulele has been falsely presenting himself as the party’s gubernatorial candidate, despite official records showing otherwise.
In his statement, Iyere revealed that his focus is no longer on the governorship. Instead, he aims to assist the federal government in addressing key national issues such as unemployment and economic development.
He called on Edo State voters to support a candidate from Edo Central Senatorial District, advocating for a fair rotation of power after 24 years of waiting.
Iyere reiterated that his current efforts at the federal level are motivated by a selfless desire to help the country overcome its present social and economic challenges.
Eligible voters in Edo State will go to the polls on Saturday, September 21, to elect who will take over from the incumbent, Godwin Obaseki, who by November 12, 2024 will complete his eight-year tenure as governor of the state.
Among the key contenders are Asue Ighodalo of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party.