In a recent development on Thursday, February 8, 2024, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) officially declared Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, the party’s 2020 governorship candidate, as qualified to contest for the party’s ticket in the upcoming 2024 election.

This decisive decision by the legally empowered national body supersedes the actions of Prof Ihonvbere’s Committee, which had attempted to screen out certain aspirants. The move was widely criticized by a majority of the aspirants, including Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, Prof Oserheimen Osunbor, and Mr Clem Agba, who felt the screening was conducted in bad faith. Some party members even speculated that the influence of Adams Oshiomhole in guiding the process may have been aimed at presenting a weaker opponent in the 2024 election, possibly in exchange for personal favors.