Minister of Labour and Productivity Chris Ngige has announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) after paying a whopping N100 million to buy presidential forms for 2023.
“On Tuesday, 19th April 2022, I publicly declared my interest to contest for the office of 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 May 29th 2022,” Ngige said in a press statement titled “Withdrawal of my Presidential Aspiration.”
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“I made the declaration in my hometown of Alor, Anambra State’s Idemili South Local Government Area. My announcement came as a result of pressure from constituents, political allies, friends, and other well-intentioned Nigerians who believed I possessed the necessary qualifications and experience for the job.
“Some of these supporters even paid for my Expression of Interest/Nomination Forms from our party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).” However, the forms must still be completed and submitted. I met with President Muhammadu Buhari today, May 13th, 2022, as a follow-up to my meeting with him on May 11th, 2022.
“It is with pleasure that I announce the withdrawal of my interest and earlier decision to run for President in the 2023 general elections, after consulting widely with my family, constituents, supporters, and well-wishers.”
“As a result, beginning with the primary, I will not be participating in any of the internal party processes associated with the said election.” I made this significant decision for two reasons: first, in the national interest, in order to allow me to focus on my job and assist the President and the Government in weathering the administration’s difficult final lap; and second, for personal reasons. I informed the President and Secretary of the Federation Government of my decision.
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“By issuing this statement, I am informing my constituents, political associates, and well-wishers across the country of this latest decision, which has the blessing and support of the overwhelming majority, and thus supersedes any other personal or other interest.” God’s blessings and gratitude. Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator (Dr.) Chris Nwabueze Ngige, MD, OON
