APC suffers setback in Edo as ex-lawmaker Agbonayinma resigns

Ehiozuwa Agbonayinma

The All Progressives Congress in Edo State has been dealt a fresh blow following the resignation of former House of Representatives member, Ehiozuwa Agbonayinma.

Agbonayinma, who announced his exit on Wednesday, accused the party of being hijacked by a group of individuals allegedly monopolising its activities.

However, the former lawmaker did not disclose his next political destination, leaving speculation about his future moves as political realignments continue ahead of upcoming elections.

Despite leaving the APC, the former lawmaker declared his intention to contest for the House of Representatives seat for the Egor/Ikpoba-Okha Federal Constituency.

He expressed frustration over what he described as undue interference in local party affairs, noting that figures like Adams Oshiomhole and Osagie Ize-Iyamu who are not from his local government or senatorial district were influencing decisions in his area, including Ikpoba-Okha Ward 6.

The former member of the Code of Conduct Bureau said he could not continue to remain in a party where politicians who worked against the APC during the last elections, were now dictating what happened within the party.

“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 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 All Progressives Congress (APC) with immediate effect.

In his letter of resignation addressed to the Ikpoba-Okha Ward 7 Chairman of the APC, the ex lawmaker said: “At this critical point in my politica 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 hand 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.

“With a heart weighed down by deep reflection, sincere gratitude, and an unshakable sense of duty to my conse my people, and the future I envision for our constituency Egor/Ikpoba-Okha.

“However, every season in life and leadership demands honest reassessment. At this critical point in my politica 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 hand 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.”