A frontline aspirant for the Gbedde State Constituency seat in the Kogi State House of Assembly, Hon. Obanewo Titus Femi, on Thursday embarked on a thank-you tour across the five wards in the constituency, following his aspiration to contest for the Gbedde constituency in the Kogi State House of Assembly.
At the tour, Obanewo explained why he withdrew from the race urging his supporters to unite behind the All Progressives Congress (APC) consensus candidate, Femi Esemikose, ahead of the forthcoming general election.
Obanewo, who visited key communities and engaged party stakeholders, youth groups, and grassroots mobilisers, expressing appreciation for their unwavering support during his campaign, said his withdrawal was linked to the intervention of Governor Usman Ododo.
Addressing supporters at various wards, the former aspirant said his decision to withdraw was guided by party unity and respect for the governor’s directive, which he described as a strategic move to strengthen the APC’s chances in all elections.
“I remain committed to the progress of Gbedde Constituency and the vision of our great party. In line with the position of His Excellency, Governor Usman Ododo, I have stepped down in the interest of unity and collective victory. I urge all my supporters to transfer the same energy, loyalty, and commitment to the consensus candidate.”
He emphasised that internal cohesion within the party was critical to securing victory at the polls, warning that division could undermine the gains already made by the APC in the state.
Obanewo also met with influential stakeholders, seeking their continued support and appealing for a seamless consolidation of efforts in favour of the party anointed candidate.
The tour took him to Aiyetoro Gbede Central Market where he is building a modern toilet to serves NURTW and Market Women. He also visited the Olu of Aiyetoro Gbede.
The entourage also berth at the Iyaloja/Chairperson Market Women; the Iya Ijó of Anglican Church of Aiyetoro Gbede, Chief Mrs Bello Elizabeth; and the Aiyetoro Gbedde Maternity Hospital, where he made generous support and donation to some patients, before they converged at his residence; where party faithful were all entertained.
The tour which witnessed large turnouts across the wards, was marked by assurances from party faithful that they would respect his decision and align with the governor’s position.
Governor Ododo had earlier called for a consensus approach in the selection of candidates, stressing the need to avoid divisive primaries and maintain political stability within the party.
With the general election drawing closer, Obanewo’s move is seen as a significant boost to the APC’s grassroots mobilisation in Gbedde, as party leaders intensify efforts to present a united front.
