By Abiola Olawale
Just hours after the conclusion of the governorship primary election of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in Edo state, which produced three candidates, a gale of resignation might have begun in the party.
This is as a former Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Barrister Andrew Emwanta, has tendered his resignation letter from the party.
The former commissioner in a resignation letter dated 18 February, 2024 and addressed to the chairman of Ward 7, Egor LGA of the party, said he was resigning because of the flawed governorship primaries which took place on Saturday.
He accused the leadership of the party of lacking in internal democracy, which he said has left him with no confidence in the party’s leadership structure.
According to the letter, his continued association with the APC would compromise his ability to support any decent candidate of his choice in future elections.
The letter reads, “I am writing to formally tender my resignation from the membership of the All Progressives Congress, effective from today, the 18th day of February, 2024.
“My decision to resign from the party stems from its lack of internal democracy, flowing from the flawed process of the just concluded Edo governorship primaries. It has left me with no confidence in the party’s leadership structure and sense of political ethos.
“It is indeed a sad decision for me to take at this crucial time, particularly, because I joined the party a few months ago. But, it is an inevitable decision, since l still enjoy the inalienable right to freedom of association, (or dissociation), guaranteed under Section 40 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, as amended.
“I believe that my continued association with the APC would compromise my ability to support any decent candidate of my choice, as I would be compelled to unwittingly align with the party’s decisions, regardless of my convictions. To do otherwise will be termed “anti-party”. This was my grouse last year with my former party, the PDP.
“Moving forward, l wish to be an “Independent” political player, who can freely support any candidate in future elections, based on their qualifications, integrity, and alignment with my values and beliefs. I am confident that this decision is in the best interest of my life’s philosophy, social orientation and the political principles I hold very dear.
“Please consider this letter as my formal resignation from the APC. I would appreciate it if you could delete my name from your register at the ward, as l move on. Thank you for your understanding and anticipated action,” he added.
The New Diplomat had reported that a fresh crisis might be looming in the fold of the Edo state chapter of APC as Saturday’s primary election produced three winners. The Chairman of the Electoral Committee of the primary, Governor Hope Uzodimma announced Dennis Idahosa as the winner, while returning officer, Stanley Ugboaja declared Monday Okpebholo as winner.
Also, Ojo Babatunde, who claimed to be representing the returning officers in all the local government declared Anamero Dekeri as the winner of the election.
