In a clear defiance of recent exclusion rumors, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, an All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Edo State, has officially declared his intention to contest in the 2024 race. Dismissing the viral reports of his exclusion by the Prof Julius Ihonvbere-led screening panel as “mere rumor,” Ize-Iyamu asserted his readiness to participate in the upcoming primaries.
Ize-Iyamu, who previously contested in the 2016 election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the 2020 election under the APC, faced defeat in both instances against the incumbent governor, Godwin Obaseki.
Speaking at the Benin Airport on Saturday, where he was warmly welcomed by supporters and APC leaders, Ize-Iyamu affirmed his commitment to the race. He addressed the controversy surrounding the screening process, emphasizing that the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party had issued clear directives allowing all aspirants to purchase nomination forms.
“I want to assure you that I am in the race, and by next week, by the grace of God, I will buy the expression of interest form. Any Edo person is worthy of the ticket, and I am not a stranger. I want to assure you that your support will not be in vain, and there is nothing to worry about,” said Ize-Iyamu.
Responding to reports that the screening committee, led by Prof Julius Ihonvbere, cleared only six aspirants and dropped 23 others, Ize-Iyamu pointed to the NWC’s statement, stating that aspirants were free to obtain nomination forms. He dismissed the notion of exclusion, asserting, “The only people that can exclude aspirants are the committee set up by the NWC. I want to assure you that I will contest and win the election.”
Addressing his relationship with Adams Oshiomhole, Ize-Iyamu described it as cordial, emphasizing mutual respect and their history of collaboration. “He is my senior brother, and I respect age. We have worked together for many years. He is the leader of our party in the state and a distinguished senator,” Ize-Iyamu added.