Hon. Prince Henry Odianosen Okojie, the current member of the House of Representatives for the Esan North East/South East constituency in the 10th National Assembly, has decided to withdraw from the race for the Edo Central Senatorial by-election. His withdrawal was confirmed in an interview with The Whistler on Monday. Okojie, who is also the husband of well-known Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson, explained that his decision was made out of concern for his people, placing their interests above personal ambition.

Okojie initially entered the senatorial race following the resignation of Senator Monday Okpebholo, who vacated the seat after winning the Edo State gubernatorial election. Okojie believed that the vacancy presented an opportunity to contribute positively to the people of Esan and the broader Edo Central region. He was motivated by his plans to bring development to his constituents and serve them at a higher level.

However, after extensive consultations with his family, friends, political associates, and well-wishers, Okojie reconsidered his position. One of the key factors influencing his decision was the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) recent ruling prohibiting political parties from fielding candidates who are already holding public office. Okojie also expressed concerns about the substantial financial burden associated with contesting elections, both for political parties and INEC. The cost and resource drain, coupled with the potential for further election cycles, led Okojie to conclude that stepping back was the best course of action.

Okojie emphasized that his interest in politics was never motivated by personal ego or unhealthy rivalry. Representing his constituents had always been his primary focus, and he remained committed to fulfilling his duties as a member of the House of Representatives. He acknowledged that his decision to withdraw was ultimately a responsibility to his people and to ensure that he could continue to serve them without distractions.

In his formal withdrawal statement, Okojie highlighted the broader implications of continuing with his candidacy. He pointed out that if he had won the senatorial seat, his current position in the House of Representatives would have become vacant, necessitating yet another by-election. This, he argued, would place an unnecessary financial and logistical burden on both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and INEC, as another round of elections would have to be conducted. Furthermore, if another member of the House of Assembly were to run for his vacated seat, it could set off a cycle of elections, continuing to strain resources.

Okojie made it clear that his decision was not based on personal ambition, but rather on the stability of his party and the greater good of his people. He explained that stepping aside would allow the party to consolidate its political structure and maintain momentum in governance, ultimately benefiting the people of Edo Central. He also reiterated his loyalty to the APC and pledged to fully support the party’s candidate for the Edo Central Senatorial District. He expressed his deep gratitude to the APC for their unwavering support and trust in him.

Okojie also took the opportunity to thank Governor Monday Okpebholo for his leadership and encouragement throughout the process. He praised the governor’s commitment to Edo State’s development and reaffirmed his continued support for Okpebholo’s administration.

In conclusion, Okojie reiterated that service to the people remained his highest calling. He expressed his dedication to continuing to serve Edo Central and Edo State, with the hope that, through unity, focus, and faith, they could achieve even greater progress.