ABUJA, Nigeria – Emeka Ihedioha, a former governor of Imo State, has resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, a party he has been associated with since its inception in 1998.
The resignation, on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, comes amidst a backdrop of ideological conflicts and what Ihedioha describes as a deviation from the party’s foundational principles.
In his resignation letter addressed to the chairman of Mbutu Ward, Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area in Imo State, Ihedioha articulated his reasons for leaving the party.
He emphasised a growing divergence between his personal beliefs and the party’s current trajectory, particularly in light of recent political disagreements within the PDP.
“Since 1998, I have contributed my quota to the development and transformation of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as one of the founding members,” Ihedioha stated in his letter.
He reminisced about the party’s commitment to internal reforms and credible leadership, both in government and in opposition.
However, Ihedioha expressed his disillusionment with the recent directions taken by the party, noting, “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.”
His resignation marks the end of a longstanding relationship with the PDP, highlighting his deep-seated concerns over the party’s ability to adhere to its core values and principles.
While stepping away from the PDP, Ihedioha affirmed his ongoing commitment to promoting democracy and good governance in Nigeria. “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 the decision was difficult to take, I, however, believe that it is the right one,” he declared.
This departure raises questions about the future political alignment of Ihedioha and the potential impacts on the PDP’s dynamics in Imo State and nationally, as the party struggles with internal cohesion and its role as an opposition force.
