February 12, (THEWILL) – A governorship aspirant of the Labour Party (LP), for the gubernatorial election in Edo state, Dr Dorry A. E Okojie, has quit the race for the Dennis Osadebay Government House.
Okojie, in a statement on Monday, m said her action followed lack of transparency and schemings behind closed doors by party leaders working towards a predetermined outcome.
Alleging lack of credibility and fairness in her party, Okojie said: “About a year ago, compelled by the dire situation in our beloved Edo State, I embarked on the arduous but necessary journey of engaging in politics to bring meaningful change to our beloved homeland, Edo State.
“Believing deeply in my skills and experience in the private sector and policy shaping and trusting unwaveringly in the foundational values of the Labour Party—equal opportunity, social justice, and progress for all—I made the decision to join the party and stand as a candidate for the esteemed office of Governor of Edo State.
“In the past year, we have worked tirelessly together to advance the party’s cause and share our vision of positive transformation across the state. My immense gratitude goes out to each and every one of you who has sacrificed time, effort, and resources to support this dream we all share—the dream of a better future for Edo State.
“However, in recent weeks and months, I have grown increasingly concerned about the candidate selection process within the party. Rather than an open, transparent process focused on the merits of potential candidates, it has become clear that some party leaders have been scheming behind closed doors, working towards a predetermined outcome.
“This obvious lack of credibility and fairness has led me to make the incredibly difficult but necessary decision to hereby step aside my candidature for Governor of Edo State. Though my heart breaks to take this step, I firmly believe it is the ethical path forward to protect the values I stand for.
“I remain fully committed to the values that first drew me to politics: transparency/accountability, integrity, and a focus on improving lives. I know that my stepping aside comes as a great disappointment, but I sincerely hope it does not deter any of you from staying engaged in the political process and continuing to fight for a better Edo State.
“There will be better days ahead. Though this chapter closes for now, our work together does not end here, delay is not denial. I look forward to finding new ways for us to drive progress and opportunity in Edo State. My profound gratitude for walking this journey with me—your dedication has meant more than words can express.”