The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, produced a list that listed Rt. Hon. Toby Okechukwu as the Labour Party candidate. Okechukwu has since distanced himself from that list. He is now the Deputy Minority Leader of the House of Representatives.
According to Anaedoonline.ng, Okechukwu was listed as the LP’s contender for the Awgu/Oji-River/Aninri Federal Constituency.
On the list made public by the INEC on Tuesday, he is listed as number 4.
The politician, in what appears to be a U-turn, stated in a statement he personally signed on Wednesday that he will no longer run for any office in 2023.
He stated that he would prefer to stay in the PDP, or Peoples Democratic Party.
The statement reads:
“My attention has been drawn to the list of candidates for the 2023 general election released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on 20th September 2022 wherein my name was published as the Labour Party Candidate for Aninri/Awgu/Oji River Federal Constituency, Enugu State.
“I wish to state that I will not be contesting as the candidate of the Labour Party or any other party in the said election. I remain a member of the Peoples Democratic Party.
2023: Back Igbo Presidency, Drop Your Ambition, – APC Chieftain Tells Tinubu
“Meanwhile, my position on this matter had since been conveyed to the National Chairman of the Labour Party in my letter dated 19th July 2022.
“I deeply appreciate and can never take for granted the overwhelming goodwill of my leaders, constituents and their wish for me to be on the ballot in the 2023 general election.
“I very much understand the pains my decision is bound to cause them. However, I believe and wish to reassure them that as a constituent, I will continue to do my best and be of utmost service to them in or out of public office.
“While thanking them for their immense support and love through the years, I am supremely confident that God will remain the ultimate compass in our affairs.”
If Presidency Doesn’t Go To South, This Is Who To Blame – APC Chieftain, Okechukwu
According to Anaedoonline.ng, Okechukwu is one of those thought to have approached the Labour Party for a ticket after the difficulties surrounding the PDP primary election.
Although the reason for the Federal lawmaker’s change of heart is unknown, a source close to him blamed the Labour Party leadership, who he claimed “did not tidy up the procedure,” for the event.
Follow us on Facebook
Post Disclaimer
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author and forum participants on this website do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Anaedo Online or official policies of the Anaedo Online.