Ihedioha made the announcement in a letter dated March 27, 2023, and made public on Tuesday, where he informed the PDP leadership of his “personal sacrifice” for a “consensus candidate” by the party.
The former governor was however screened and cleared a few days ago by the PDP to contest the party’s primary ahead of the November 11 governorship election in Imo State.
But in his later addressed to the embattled National Chairman of the party, Iyorchia Ayu, Ihedioha wrote, “As I turned 58 years last Friday, March 24, I had cause to reflect on so many things, including the state of the Peoples Democratic Party.
“Having been a member since its formation in 1998, I align myself with the request made by our state chapter to the National Working Committee for a consensus choice of the candidate regarding the 2023 governorship primaries.
“In the interest of harmony and unity of the party, I have elected to make the personal sacrifice of withdrawing from further participation in the processes leading to the emergence of the gubernatorial candidate.
“This decision was not taken lightly. My commitment to the service of our people has never been in doubt.”
The former Imo governor said his decision was in the best interest of the state as he apologised to supporters and well-wishers who might be disappointed in his decision to discontinue from the race.
He said, “And I am sure many of those who have, on their own, already started mobilising for me in Imo State will be disappointed.
“I sincerely seek their understanding and that of associates, admirers and particularly the electorates who have over the years aligned themselves and identified with my political aspirations.
“I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to have served my various constituencies both as a legislator and governor. I am also proud of the positive impact I made, particularly in the seven months I served as the Governor of Imo State.”
