Mercy Johnson’s Husband Withdraws From Edo Central Senatorial Race

Hon. Prince Henry Odianosen Okojie, the current member of the House of Representatives representing Esan North East/South East constituency in the 10th National Assembly, has withdrawn from the Edo Central Senatorial by-election race.

Okojie, who is the husband of popular Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson, confirmed his withdrawal in an interview with THE WHISTLER on Monday.

“I’m doing this because of my people,” Okojie told THE WHISTLER.

He explained that his initial motivation to contest for the senatorial seat was prompted by the vacancy created when Senator Monday Okpebholo resigned from the seat and won the last Edo State gubernatorial election.

“The reason why I even ventured to run for this election was because of the vacancy that was created when the now governor won the election and became the governor of Edo State. So, I felt that the good plans that I have for my constituents, and the entire Esan people should enjoy it. So, that was why I decided to contest,” he explained.

Okojie further explained that his withdrawal followed extensive consultations.

According to him, the decision was partly influenced by recent pronouncements by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding political parties fielding candidates who are already in office.

Additionally, he mentioned concerns about the substantial financial resources required by both INEC and political parties to prosecute elections.

“Looking at the way it is going, after due consultation, and with the recent pronouncement from INEC saying that political parties shouldn’t be fielding candidates who are already in office, [I decided to withdraw].

“Also, the complaint about the huge finances required to prosecute elections, I decided to leave it. My interest in politics is not borne out of negative voices.

“Representing my people has always taken pre-eminence in my political career and that is why I’m doing this for my people. As I said, it wasn’t my personal idea to even have to run for any political office,” he said, adding “I’m still in the office. I’m a member of the Federal House of Representatives.”

When asked about the possibility of running for the senatorial seat in the future, Okojie responded philosophically: “You know it is God that gives power. If the opportunity avails itself, why not? We are all political animals.”

In his formal withdrawal statement, Okojie stated that his aspiration was never about ego, personal ambition, or unhealthy rivalry, but rather a sincere call to service and a desire to contribute meaningfully to the progress of the people of Edo Central and the state at large.

Quoting him, “…after extensive consultations with my family, friends, political associates, and well-wishers, I have decided that it is both wise and necessary to step aside from the senatorial race at this point. This decision is rooted in a deep sense of responsibility and in recognition of the broader implications of my candidacy.

“As the current member of the House of Representatives for Esan North-East/Esan South-East Federal Constituency, my first obligation is to my constituents. Their trust in me is sacred, and I must remain fully focused on delivering the dividends of democracy to them without distraction.

“Furthermore, we must consider the potential ripple effects of this political journey. Had I continued and eventually won the senatorial seat, my current seat in the House of Representatives would become vacant, triggering another by-election? This, in turn, would place an additional financial and logistical burden not only on our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) but also on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which would be required to conduct yet another election within a short time frame.

“Such a scenario could repeat itself if a House of Assembly member were then to contest for my vacated seat, leading to a cycle of elections that would further strain both party and national resources.

“In making this decision, I have prioritized the stability of our party and the broader interest of our people over personal ambition. I believe this step will enable us to consolidate our political structure, maintain momentum in governance, and focus our energy on delivering meaningful development.

“I remain profoundly grateful to the APC for the unwavering support and trust reposed in me. My loyalty to our party remains absolute, and I pledge to support the party’s candidate for Edo Central Senatorial District wholeheartedly. Together, we will ensure victory at the polls and continue to promote the progress of our region.

“I also wish to specially thank His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo, for his exceptional leadership, encouragement, and brotherly role throughout this process. His commitment to the growth of Edo State is unmatched, and I will continue to support his administration to achieve even greater milestones for our people.

“In all things, service to the people is the highest calling, and I remain committed to that cause. With unity, focus, and the fear of God, we will continue to move Edo Central and Edo State forward.”