Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, a senatorial seat aspirant in Edo South, has affirmed his commitment to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and expressed faith in its leadership to ensure fair primary elections,urging all stakeholders to act with integrity and allow party members to decide freely.
Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, who is confident that the leadership of the APC will do what is right made the disclosure while responding to a letter circulating on social media, purportedly written by an individual from the Edo South senatorial district, urging him to abandon the All Progressives Congress (APC) in light of recent developments and align elsewhere.
The letter by Ize-Iyamu reads, “I recently came across a letter circulating on social media, purportedly written by an individual from my senatorial district, urging me to abandon the All Progressives Congress (APC) in light of recent developments and align elsewhere. Ordinarily, I would have ignored it. However, to prevent misinterpretation and needless speculation, I have chosen to respond on the same platform through which it was amplified.
Let me state this clearly and without hesitation: I have no intention of leaving the APC- now or ever, regardless of the circumstances. I am, by the grace of God, one of the foundational builders of this party and played a critical role in its formation. Though I once stepped away due to challenges within my state, I returned with a firm resolve that no disagreement, no provocation, and no temporary setback would ever again drive me from a house I helped to build. That resolve remains unshaken.
This position is further strengthened by the leadership our party continues to provide at the national level. I hold in high regard the leader of our party and President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He assumed office at a time of profound national difficulty and has taken bold steps to stabilize and reposition the country. Such leadership deserves support and constructive engagement.
At the state level, the same spirit of purposeful leadership is evident. I acknowledge the efforts of our Governor, Monday Okpebholo. Though relatively new in office, he has shown determination to transform infrastructure and reposition Edo State for growth. Progress demands cooperation and shared purpose.
My decision to remain in the APC is not born of weakness, fear, or personal gain. It is a matter of principle. Disagreements must be resolved within the house- not by abandoning it. True leadership is tested not in comfort, but in moments of challenge. It is within this same framework of responsibility that my decision to contest must be understood.
My aspiration to represent Edo South in the Senate is not self-imposed. It is a response to the persistent and overwhelming call of my people. I have accepted this responsibility because I am convinced that I can effectively represent and defend their collective interests at the Red Chamber. Beyond personal conviction, there is also a compelling historical responsibility.
Orhionmwon Local Government Area, despite its vast landmass, abundant resources, and strategic importance, has never produced a Senator from Edo South since the First Republic. This is not merely a statistic; it is a gap in representation that must now be corrected.
Given this mandate and responsibility, let there be no doubt: I am in this race to the very end. I will not withdraw, and I will not be distracted by pressure, speculation, or orchestrated opposition.
Beyond individual ambition, the integrity of the process is paramount. 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. Directing appointees or stakeholders on whom to support is inconsistent with the democratic ideals upon which our party stands.
I therefore call on all those entrusted with this responsibility to act with integrity and impartiality. Let party members decide freely, without fear, coercion, or intimidation. We are confident that the leadership of our great party will do what is right.
To my supporters and all who believe in this cause, remain steadfast. We do not abandon the ship because of a storm- we prove our strength by steering it through. Stand firm and stay the course.
The APC remains our platform; our journey continues- stronger, steadier, and resolute within it.”
