Withdrawal From Edo Central Senatorial By-Election Race

Withdrawal From Edo Central Senatorial By-Election RaceI wish to formally announce my withdrawal from the race for the Edo Central Senatorial seat, which became vacant following the well-deserved elevation of our leader, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, as the Executive Governor of Edo State....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

From the very beginning, my aspiration to contest for the Senate was driven solely by a sincere call to service. It was never about ego, personal ambition, or unhealthy rivalry. I was motivated by the desire to contribute more meaningfully to the progress of our people and to advance the vision we all share for a greater Edo Central and Edo State at large.

However, after extensive consultations with my family, friends, political associates, and well-wishers, I have decided that it is both wise and necessary to step aside from the senatorial race at this point. This decision is rooted in a deep sense of responsibility and in recognition of the broader implications of my candidacy.

As the current member of the House of Representatives for Esan North-East/Esan South-East Federal Constituency, my first obligation is to my constituents. Their trust in me is sacred, and I must remain fully focused on delivering the dividends of democracy to them without distraction.

Furthermore, we must consider the potential ripple effects of this political journey. Had I continued and eventually won the senatorial seat, my current seat in the House of Representatives would become vacant, triggering another by-election. This, in turn, would place an additional financial and logistical burden not only on our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), but also on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which would be required to conduct yet another election within a short time frame. 

Such a scenario could repeat itself if a House of Assembly member were then to contest for my vacated seat, leading to a cycle of elections that would further strain both party and national resources.

In making this decision, I have prioritized the stability of our party and the broader interest of our people over personal ambition. I believe this step will enable us to consolidate our political structure, maintain momentum in governance, and focus our energy on delivering meaningful development.

I remain profoundly grateful to the APC for the unwavering support and trust reposed in me. My loyalty to our party remains absolute, and I pledge to support the party’s candidate for Edo Central Senatorial District wholeheartedly. Together, we will ensure victory at the polls and continue to promote the progress of our region.

I also wish to specially thank His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo, for his exceptional leadership, encouragement, and brotherly role throughout this process. His commitment to the growth of Edo State is unmatched, and I will continue to support his administration to achieve even greater milestones for our people.

In all things, service to the people is the highest calling, and I remain committed to that cause. With unity, focus, and the fear of God, we will continue to move Edo Central and Edo State forward.

Thank you, and God bless.

*Hon. Prince Henry Odianosen Okojie,*

*Member, House of Representatives*

*Esan North-East/Esan South-East Federal* *Constituency*

*March 16, 2025*