Several leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Imo led by former governor Emeka Ihedioha, have resigned from the party to express their anger at the direction of the main opposition party.
Ihedioha’s resignation was contained in a letter to the chairman of the party in his Mbutu Ward, Aboh Mbaise LGA, Imo.
The letter dated April 23, 2024, was copied to the state chairman of the party, the national chairman, and the chairman of the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT).
In it, the former deputy speaker of the House of Representatives hinged his resignation on the PDP’s inability to embark on internal reforms, enforce its own rules, or offer credible opposition to the ruling party.
The PDP had its 98th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting last week where it endorsed the continuation in office of the acting national chairman, Ambassador Iliya Damagun, against agitation from some quarters for him to step aside.
The former governor stated: “Since 1998, I have contributed my quota to the development and transformation of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as one of the founding members.
“All these years, I have taken pride in the fact that the PDP is a party that will always look inward for internal reforms and provide credible leadership for the people, whether in power or outside power.
“I have had the benefit of serving and benefitting from the party at various levels.
“Regrettably, in recent times, the party has taken on a path that is at variance with my personal beliefs. Despite my attempt to offer counsel, the party is, sadly no longer able to carry out internal reforms, enforce its own rules, or offer credible opposition to the ruling All Progressives Congress.
“It is in the light of the foregoing, that I am compelled to offer my resignation from the People’s Democratic Party effective immediately.
“While this decision was difficult to take, I, however, believe that it is the right one. Despite this resignation, I will always be available to offer my services towards the deepening of democracy and good governance in Nigeria.”
Also, South East zonal ex-officio, Chief Stanley Ekezie, has announced his resignation from the party.
In his letter to the PDP South East Zonal chairman, he said that he took the decision on personal grounds.
He stated: “Sequel to my resignation from the PDP at my home Ward, Umunkwo in Isiala Mbano LGA of Imo State, I am hereby also tendering my resignation as a South East Zonal Ex Officio member.
“I have taken this decision for personal reasons, and after exhaustive consultations with my family and political colleagues.
I remain grateful for the opportunity to have contributed my humble quota to the progress of the PDP in the past.”
Similarly, the Imo State Legal Adviser of the PDP, Kissinger Ikeokwu, has resigned.
He stated in his letter of resignation: “After consultation with my family, and after a deep reflection on the direction of the party, I have come to the conclusion that ti cannot in good conscience remain a member of this party.
“Consequently, I hereby resign my membership of the Peoples Democratic Party and from the office of State Legal Adviser, Peoples Democratic Party Imo State.
I wish the party well in all its future aspirations.”
Others who have announced their resignation are the Assistant Publicity Secretary in Imo State, Emenike Nmeregini; Secretary, Imo State PDP Elders Committee, Prof. Obioma Iheduru; Assistant Treasurer (Okigwe), Chief David Abanihi; Hon. Onwuabariri Kingsley, among others.
They alleged that the former ruling party has lost focus at both the national and Imo State level.
