APC Chieftain Emmanuel Agbaje Resigns Amid Allegations of Alienation and Sidelining

With less than three weeks to the September 21st governorship election, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State has been dealt a significant blow as Emmanuel Agbaje, a prominent chieftain and former lawmaker representing Akoko-Edo II from 2015 to 2023, announced his resignation from the party.

Agbaje’s departure comes amid growing discontent and allegations of being marginalised within the party, particularly at the ward level.

In a resignation letter addressed to the chairman of Ward 10 in the Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, dated 2nd September 2024, Agbaje expressed his frustration with the party’s internal dynamics.

He cited a lack of inclusion and respect for core party loyalists as primary reasons for his decision to leave.

The letter, which has since been widely circulated, outlines his grievances and explains his need to seek a political environment that values loyalty and dedication.

“This decision has not been taken lightly,” Agbaje wrote. “After careful consideration and consultation with my support base and leaders, I believe it is the best course of action for me at this time.

Since democracy provides for choices, I am entitled to review my involvement and seek alignment that recognises loyalty, dedication, and sacrifices.

I can no longer accept the deliberate alienation and the sidelining of core Party faithful and leaders, particularly from our Ward.”

Agbaje’s resignation highlights a broader issue within the APC, where allegations of internal discord and dissatisfaction among long-standing members have surfaced.

As a founding member of the party, Agbaje’s departure is particularly poignant, reflecting a deeper dissatisfaction that may resonate with other members who feel similarly excluded.

He expressed regret over the decision, acknowledging the valuable relationships he had built within the party over the years.

However, he remained resolute that his departure was necessary under the current circumstances.

“As a founding member of the Party, it is a difficult decision considering the relationships built within the Party over the years, as well as the feelings of good friends who may choose to remain,” Agbaje stated.

“My assurances are that our friendship and relationships remain protected and insulated. Life outside politics is larger.”

Agbaje also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the party leadership for their support during his tenure, noting that he valued their shared commitment to the ideals of the APC.

He conveyed his hope for continued collaboration that would benefit their communities, suggesting that his departure from the party would not impede his ongoing dedication to public service and community development.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your leadership and support during my time in the Party,” Agbaje wrote.

“I have valued our working relationship and the shared commitment we have had to the ideals of the APC. I look forward to a continuous robust relationship that benefits our people and communities.”

Agbaje’s resignation is particularly notable as he was the only APC lawmaker in the Edo State House of Assembly who did not defect to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with Governor Godwin Obaseki ahead of the 2020 governorship election.

His decision to remain with the APC during that critical period was seen as a significant show of loyalty, making his current resignation all the more impactful.

The timing of Agbaje’s resignation, just weeks before a crucial governorship election, raises questions about the stability and unity within the APC in Edo State.

As the party prepares for the upcoming election, Agbaje’s departure could have implications for its electoral prospects, particularly in Akoko-Edo, where his influence and support base could sway voter sentiment.

Observers have noted that Agbaje’s exit underscores the challenges that political parties in Nigeria often face, where internal conflicts and issues of marginalisation can lead to the departure of key figures.

As the governorship election approaches, the APC will need to address these internal challenges to present a united front and maintain its competitiveness.

Agbaje has not yet announced any plans to join another political party, leaving open the possibility that he may continue his political career as an independent actor or align with a different political entity that aligns with his values.

In the meantime, his resignation has sparked discussions among party members and political analysts about the broader implications for the APC’s future in Edo State.

The unfolding developments within the APC, especially with the departure of a figure as prominent as Agbaje, will be closely watched in the lead-up to the governorship election.

As political realignments take shape, the impact of Agbaje’s resignation may resonate beyond his immediate constituency, influencing the broader political landscape in Edo State.