Mass Resignations Rock Edo State as Four Aides to Governor Obaseki Quit PDP

In a surprising development just weeks before the Edo State governorship election, four aides to Governor Godwin Obaseki have resigned from their positions and left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The resignations, which were submitted on September 4 and 6, 2024, signal growing discontent within the party and come at a critical time for the PDP as it seeks to maintain its grip on power in the state.

The aides who resigned include Dr. Pamela Archer, a Special Adviser to Owan East Local Government Council, and three Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) to the Governor: Osayande Emenya, Henry Osaheni Ukato, and Efosa Edo-Osagie, all from Ward 6 in Oredo Local Government, and Timothy Edokpolor from Ward 8 in Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area.

Their resignation letters were addressed to the chairmen of their respective local councils and wards, reflecting their departure from both their official roles and the PDP.

Osayande Emenya, who previously served as the Youth Leader of Ward 6 and Organising Secretary of Oredo Local Government, and Efosa Edo-Osagie, cited the non-payment of their salaries since their appointments as SSAs as a key factor in their decision to resign.

They also expressed frustration with what they described as the marginalisation of longstanding PDP members by new entrants into the party, a sentiment echoed by other resigning aides.

In their joint resignation statement, Emenya and Edo-Osagie stated, “We are resigning from the party based on the principle of equity, fairness, and justice that we hold dearly, which no longer prevails within our Party at the Ward levels.

The marginalisation of the aboriginal PDP members, who have worked assiduously to sustain this party, prior to its infiltration, despite complaints, has made it untenable for us to continue.”

The resigning aides voiced concerns that the values of inclusivity and recognition for dedicated party members have been overshadowed by internal politics, leading to an environment where the contributions of long-serving members are undervalued.

They thanked the leadership of the PDP and Governor Obaseki for the opportunities afforded to them, but made it clear that their principles could not allow them to remain in a party where they felt sidelined.

Dr. Pamela Archer, who resigned as Special Adviser to Owan East Local Government Council, outlined her reasons for stepping down in a detailed letter that highlighted governance issues within the council.

She expressed concerns about the lack of inclusiveness in decision-making processes, which she felt undermined effective governance.

“After careful consideration and reflection, I am writing to formally resign from my position as Special Adviser at Owan East Local Government Council, effective 4th September 2024.

It has been a privilege to serve in this capacity. However, I must express my concerns about the decision-making processes within the council.

Unfortunately, I have observed that decisions are made without valuable input from the executives, which I believe undermines the collective effort and the potential for effective governance,” she wrote.

Dr. Archer’s resignation letter further highlighted the challenges of working in an environment where executive members’ perspectives were not valued or considered, undermining the collective goal of good governance.

She lamented the current decision-making approach and stressed the need for a more collaborative and participatory governance model that considers diverse perspectives.

“I firmly believe in a system where diverse perspectives and expertise are considered, ensuring that decisions made are in the best interest of our people.

Regrettably, I feel that the current approach does not align with these values, and I do not wish to be part of a system where my contributions as an executive member are not valued or considered,” Archer stated.

Her departure underscores a broader call for a governance system that prioritises transparency, inclusivity, and integrity.

Archer expressed hope that her resignation would serve as a wake-up call to the council to adopt a more inclusive approach, which she believes is essential for the progress and development of Owan East.

The mass resignations are a blow to the PDP in Edo State as it gears up for the impending governorship election.

The departure of these aides not only reflects internal discord but also raises questions about the party’s ability to maintain unity and manage internal grievances effectively.

As the election approaches, the PDP will need to address these underlying issues and work to restore confidence among its members to prevent further defections and maintain a strong campaign front.

Governor Obaseki and the PDP leadership are now faced with the task of navigating these challenges, with the eyes of the electorate closely watching how the party manages its internal affairs.

The outcome of the upcoming election will not only determine the future leadership of Edo State but will also serve as a litmus test for the PDP’s ability to resolve internal conflicts and uphold the principles of equity, fairness, and justice that its members demand.