Chris Ngige withdraws from presidential race after consulting with friends and family

MINISTER for labour and employment Dr Chris Ngige has withdrawn from the 2023 All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential race saying that after consulting with friend and family he had opted to bow out of the contest.

 

About a month ago, Dr Ngige announced his candidacy, indicating that he would seek the APC's presidential ticket at the party primaries later this month. However, today, he announced that he was withdrawing from the race despite the fact that his supporters had purchased the nomination form for him, which he was, however, yet to fill and submit.

 

Dr Ngige said: “On Tuesday, 19th April 2022, I publicly declared my interest to contest for the office of the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, following the constitutional provision that precludes our amiable incumbent President, Muhammadu Buhari from seeking re-election to the office, as he would have completed his two terms in office by 29thMay 2023. The declaration was made in my hometown, Alor, Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State.

 

“My declaration was sequel to pressure on me from my constituents, political associates, friends and other well-meaning Nigerians, who felt I possessed the necessary qualifications and experience for the job. Having also consulted widely with my family, constituents, supporters and well-wishers, it is my pleasure to announce the withdrawal of my interest and earlier decision to contest the office of the President in the 2023 general elections.”

 

He confirmed that his supporters contributed money to purchase the expression of interest and nomination form for him. Dr Ngige further revealed that he had an audience with President Muhammadu Buhari over the development after he earlier met him on his political ambition.

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