Benue: ‘APC Primary appears predetermined’ — Aspirant Williams Obande exits race

A House of Representatives aspirant for Ado, Okpokwu and Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, seat on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Williams Obande Obeya, has withdrawn from the race just hours before the scheduled party primaries.

Obande made his decision known in a statement released on Friday night, explaining that the move followed extensive consultations, deep personal reflection, and prayers.

The aspirant disclosed that although he had earlier made his declaration in Ogbadibo, he later arrived at the decision not to participate in Saturday’s primary election after further discussions with associates and family members.

According to him, the political journey brought him closer to the people of Enone and strengthened his passion to serve the constituency.

However, he noted that the pursuit of the ambition had consumed valuable time that could have been spent with his family, especially his wife and children.

He also hinted that the primary process appeared to have been concluded in advance, alleging that the outcome was already predetermined.

Despite his concerns, Obande maintained that he was leaving the contest peacefully and without resentment.

“I am stepping aside with my dignity intact because I know I entered this race with sincerity, love, and a genuine desire to serve Enone,” he stated.

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

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

Obande further stressed that his withdrawal from the contest does not signal the end of his commitment to the political and developmental future of Enone.

According to him, he still intends to play an active role in shaping the leadership direction of the constituency ahead of the general election.

He added that he believes God may be redirecting him toward another path of service for the benefit of the people.

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

“I hereby withdraw unconditionally from the race for the House of Representatives and also state that I will not be participating in the party primaries scheduled for tomorrow. 

“Even as I was doing my declaration in Ogbadibo today, this decision was not yet made; it came only after further reflection, prayers, and consultations afterwards. This journey has been deeply emotional and enlightening, bringing me closer to our people and strengthening my desire to serve. 

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

“It is also important for me to speak honestly: tomorrow’s primary, as widely understood, appears to be a predetermined process, but I will walk away with my head held high, knowing I came with sincerity, love, and genuine commitment to Enone. 

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

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

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