A former member of the House of Representatives, Ehiozuwa Agbonayinma, on Wednesday resigned from the All Progressives Congress in Edo State.
Agbonayinma announced his resignation from the APC at a press briefing held in Benin City.
Agbonayinma, who is seeking a return to the National Assembly, said he would soon announce the political party under whose platform he hoped to contest next year’s general election.
He cited reasons for leaving the APC, including a lack of respect for his leadership of Ikpoba-Okha Local Government, the marginalisation of Edo South in political appointments, and undemocratic practices, among others.
The former member of the Code of Conduct Bureau said he could not remain in an undemocratic party, noting that politicians who worked against the APC during the election were now dictating events within the party.
He said, “As a foundation member from the days of AC, ACN, ACD, now APC, we worked diligently to build an all-inclusive democratic institution.
“It is, therefore, deeply distressing to witness the party in our dear constituency gradually becoming the property of one or a few individuals who are unnecessarily and undemocratically interfering in the political providence of the party in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government.
“After a careful evaluation of recent developments within the party (APC), and having observed a series of anti democratic tendencies and activities, I regret to inform you of my decision to resign my membership of the APC with immediate effect
“At this critical point in my political journey, and in alignment with my personal convictions, principles, and evolving vision for purposeful service come to the solemn conclusion that it is necessary to take this difficult but inevitable step.
“While I may be stepping away from the party, my respect for the institution and for the many sincere and hardworking individuals within it remains unwavering. I remain committed, as always, to the service of the people, the strengthening of democracy, and the pursuit of a better future for Edo State and Nigeria.”
The resignation of Agbonayinma, a strong leader of the party in Ikpoba Okha and the state, will come as a surprise to his supporters and leaders of the party in the state.
He is a strong supporter of the state governor, Monday Okpebholo, and has made his intention of returning to the National Assembly known to his supporters and party leaders.
He is at the forefront of the campaign against cultism in secondary schools in the state, while also showcasing Okpebholo’s achievements in mainstream and social media.
However, he may have been sidelined, while another person may have been favoured in his local government, which led to his resignation from the APC.
