The African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate, Akpovire Godwin Ovuomaraini, has withdrawn from the March 11, 2023 governorship election, citing concerns over his personal safety.

The withdrawal follows persistent threats to his life after a recent abduction, which has forced the candidate to remain out of public view since regaining his freedom on October 20, 2022.

Confirming the development, the AAC Publicity Secretary, Gbubemi Patrick, said Ovuomaraini took the decision after carefully assessing the security risks surrounding his campaign.

Patrick disclosed that the candidate had not made any public appearance or issued any statement since his release from captivity, adding that the party would not be presenting a replacement candidate as the deadline for substitution had already elapsed.

He noted that this was the second time Ovuomaraini had been kidnapped within a three-year period, describing the situation as deeply troubling and reflective of the worsening security environment.

Ovuomaraini also condemned the failure of the Nigeria Police Force to arrest and prosecute those responsible for the abductions, expressing concern that the perpetrators remain at large.

According to the party, the candidate’s withdrawal underscores growing fears among political actors over safety ahead of the elections and raises fresh questions about the ability of security agencies to guarantee protection for candidates and citizens alike.