Former Cross River State Governor, Ben Ayade, says President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed him to withdraw from the senatorial race ahead of the next general elections.
In a statement on his Facebook page, Ayade said the request followed consultations in Abuja, which he has agreed to honour, though he expressed dissatisfaction over the decision.
He alleged that he was not fully informed of the political dynamics in Cross River State, claiming that beneficiaries of the decision may include individuals involved in electoral violence.
Ayade also recalled his role in strengthening the All Progressives Congress in the South-South, noting his contribution to past election victories in the state.
He lamented what he described as political marginalisation but urged his supporters to respect the President’s directive.
The former governor, however, advised against purchasing nomination forms for the Senate race, while affirming his continued loyalty to the APC and commitment to supporting party candidates in future elections.
