Ondo First Lady, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has withdrawn from the Imo East Senatorial Race following “brazen irregularities, use of force and intimidation meted on her person and supporters”.
Quest Times earlier reported that the wife of the Ondo Governor was chased out of the Imo APC secretariat during the primaries held on Saturday, May 28.
In a statement she personally issued on Sunday, Mrs Akeredolu thanked all her supporters who stood by her during this period.
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“I wish to declare my decision to withdraw from the Senatorial Primaries of Imo East Senatorial zone. This decision has become necessary following brazen irregularities, use of force and intimidation meted on my person and supporters.
“I have received reliable information that arrangements have been concluded by some high authorities within the party to scheme the whole process in favour of a particular candidate. Delegates are being harassed and intimidated to comply with this directive.
”I believe in free and fair elections, equity and level playing ground. The circumstances that have shrouded events preceding this primaries have proven to be far from these ideals which I hold so dearly.
“It is expedient therefore for me to withdraw from this race which I believe is also in the interest of the party in the state.
“Finally, let me affirm that I will continue to serve the good people of Imo East Senatorial zone and Imo state at large, contributing my quota to development and a fair and just society. Politics should not be a do or die affair.
“I had earlier stated that if I did not emerge as the standard bearer in a free and fair primary, I would throw my weight behind any of my brothers who emerged.
“All I asked for was a level playing ground where delegates would be allowed to express themselves without fear and intimidation. I sincerely hope that one day, we will get it right,” the statement read.