Former Governor of Imo State, Emeka Ihedioha withdrawn from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship election primary in the state on Tuesday.
Information gathered by PM NEWS revealed that Ihedioha was pressured to step down from the race to pave the way for party’s National Secretary, Mr Samuel Anyanwu to emerge.
It was gathered that Ihedioha is close to the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike and in the process to whittle the power of Wike, he was forced to step down from the top against his wish.
In the letter of withdrawal, Ihedioha showed that he was not happy and forced to step down for Anyanwu, who will now be the party’s consensus candidate.
Ihedioha, in the letter obtained by NAN, said he turned 58 years March 24, he had cause to reflect on so many things, including the state of PDP.
The former deputy speaker of the House of Representatives said that having been a member since formation in 1998, he aligned himself with the request made by PDP Imo chapter to the National Working Committee (NWC) for a consensus choice of candidate regarding the 2023 Governorship primary.
“In the interest of harmony and unity of the Party, I have elected to make the personal sacrifice of withdrawing from further participation in the processes leading to the emergence of the gubernatorial candidate.
“This decision was not taken lightly. My commitment to the service of our people has never been in doubt. And I am sure many of those who have, on their own, already started mobilizing for me in Imo State will be disappointed.
“I sincerely seek their understanding and that of associates, admirers and particularly the electorate who have over the years aligned themselves and identified with my political aspirations,” Ihedioha said.
Ihedioha who was sacked as governor in 2020 by the Supreme Court, expressed gratitude for the opportunity give to him to have served in various constituencies both as a legislator and governor.
“I am also proud of the positive impact I made, particularly in the seven months I served as the Governor of Imo State,” he said.
