AVM Paul Daniel Masiyer (rtd) has withdrawn the lawsuit he instituted against the All Progressives Congress, APC, over the party’s recent primary election for the Bokkos/Mangu Federal Constituency.
Masiyer said the decision followed consultations with elders, critical stakeholders and family members across the constituency, who urged him to prioritise unity and the collective interest of the people.
In a statement issued on Friday, Masiyer said his decision was informed by the counsel of community leaders, his Christian faith and his desire to promote peace within the APC and the constituency.
He disclosed that he had instructed his legal team to immediately withdraw the case from the Federal High Court, Jos, where he had challenged the outcome of the party’s primary.
Masiyer, who contested the APC primary for the House of Representatives seat, said his recent thank-you tour across the Bokkos/Mangu Federal Constituency provided an opportunity to engage with elders and stakeholders on the development.
According to him, the interactions further reinforced the need to resolve the disagreement and prevent divisions within the party.
“My recent discussions with our elders and critical stakeholders have deeply informed my decision. Guided by their counsel, my faith, and a commitment to the greater good of our people, I have made a very important, yet difficult decision,” he said.
“I have decided to withdraw the lawsuit I instituted against my party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), regarding the recent party primaries for the Bokkos/Mangu Federal Constituency, and I have immediately instructed my legal team to effect this directive.”
The retired Air Vice Marshal said although seeking legal redress was an option available to him, he had chosen to make what he described as a sacrifice for peace, harmony and progress.
“While pursuing legal redress was my rightful option, leadership often requires sacrifices for peace, harmony, and progress. We cannot build a stronger, more prosperous party and constituency if our house remains divided,” Masiyer stated.
He also appealed to his supporters to see the withdrawal of the case as an effort towards reconciliation rather than a retreat from his political aspirations.
“To my loyal supporters, I know some of you may feel conflicted by this decision, but I assure you that this is not a retreat; it is a strategic step towards healing and collective strength,” he said.
Masiyer maintained that his vision for Bokkos/Mangu had not changed, assuring his supporters that his commitment to serving the people remained firm.
He also expressed appreciation to members of his campaign team and supporters who stood by him during the electioneering process, saying their faith and dedication contributed to the journey.
He said the decision was also consistent with his Christian values, noting that respect for elders and community leaders remained an important principle guiding his political engagement.
Masiyer concluded by calling for unity within the APC and the Bokkos/Mangu Federal Constituency, while urging stakeholders to work together in the interest of the people.
