The Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige has withdrawn from the presidential race.
The Minister said he decided on the move after an audience with President Muhammadu Buhari and wide consultation with his “family, constituents, supporters, and well-wishers.”
It is coming on the same day President Buhari held a valedictory session for his cabinet members who are vying for elective political offices in the 2023 elections.
It also comes two days after the President directed such cabinet members to resign.
A statement signed by Dr. Ngige said he would “not be participating in any of the internal party processes of the said election, starting with the primary.”
Ngige, who had been a Senator and the Governor of Anambra State declared his presidential ambition at a ceremony in his hometown of Alor, Anambra State on 19 April.