By Suleiman Idris, Abuja
Gbenga Daniel, former Governor of Ogun State has stepped down from running for the chairmanship of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the ongoing national convention of the party in Abuja.
His withdrawal which was reported by Saharareporters on Twitter came after Jimi Agbaje and Bode George, both aspirants from the South West left the contest for different reasons.
George had sited manipulation and lack of internal politics as reasons for his withdrawal on Friday night, Agbaje said he stepped down to reduce the number of aspirants from the South West.
Agbaje on his twitter handle @jimiagbaje said he stepped down in order to reduce the number of aspirants from the South-West and give way for the region to have a bargain for the coveted office.
“With less than 24 hours to the convention, I have painfully decided to withdraw from the race hoping that others will join me in bringing down the number such that the South West can have a fighting chance.
“The support from serving and past governors, senators, members of the House of Representatives, women, youth and opinion leaders has been tremendous. While sincerely thanking them for their unflinching loyalty, I empathize with the great disappointment they must feel at this decision.
“I plead that we all put the overall interest of PDP first. I pledge my support to whoever emerges as the national chairman as determined at the national convention.
“Kindly take this letter as my formal notice of withdrawal from the race for National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party ” he said.
