By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – An aspirant for the House of Representatives seat in Idah Federal Constituency of Kogi State, Engr. Mustapha Hassan Obaje, has withdrawn from the race after consultations with leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), saying ‘personal ambition must never come before the unity of our party and the development of our people.’

The withdrawal, announced at a press conference in Abuja, reflects ongoing efforts within the Kogi APC to maintain internal cohesion ahead of future political contests, with Obaje backing the leadership direction of Governor Usman Ododo and urging supporters to remain loyal to the party.

Addressing journalists, supporters, and party stakeholders, Obaje said the decision followed extensive consultations with APC leaders and deference to Governor Ododo’s directive.

He said, “This decision was not taken lightly, but it is borne out of my abiding belief that the collective interest of our party and the development of our constituency must always take precedence over personal ambition.

“As loyal members of the APC, we must continue to work together in harmony to strengthen our party and ensure victory at all levels.”

Obaje thanked supporters, political associates, youths, women groups, elders, and stakeholders across Idah Federal Constituency for standing by him throughout the aspiration.

“I wish to express my profound gratitude to the good people of Idah Federal Constituency, my supporters, political associates, youths, women groups, elders, and the numerous stakeholders who have stood by me throughout this aspiration journey,” he stated.

He said his decision to step down would not affect his commitment to the constituency or the party.

Obaje said, “I remain fully committed to the growth and advancement of Idah Federal Constituency and will continue to contribute positively towards the welfare of our people and the success of our great party.

“Politics should always be about service, sacrifice, and the overall interest of the people.”

The APC aspirant also appealed to his supporters to accept the decision peacefully and avoid actions capable of creating division within the party.

“Let us continue to uphold peace, respect constituted authority, uphold the values of our party, and work together for the success of our great party at all levels,” he said.

Obaje reaffirmed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Ododo, pledging continued loyalty to the APC and its policies.

He also thanked former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, Deputy Governor Joel Oyibo, State Accountant-General Dr Habibat Oyiza Tijjani, State Auditor-General Alhaji Yakubu Yusuf Okala, party leaders, and other stakeholders for their support throughout the process.