Agbonayinma resigns from APC, alleging marginalisation and interference in Edo politics, citing internal party control issues and exclusion
Former member of the House of Representatives, Ehiozuwa Johnson Agbonayinma, on Wednesday in Benin City, announced his resignation from the All Progressives Congress, alleging marginalisation and interference by influential figures within the party structure in Edo State.
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Agbonayinma, who represented the Egor and Ikpoba-Okha federal constituency between 2015 and 2019, said his decision followed what he described as increasing internal control of party activities by individuals he accused of monopolising decision making and sidelining foundational members.
He claimed that party operations in his constituency had been unduly influenced by actors outside his immediate political base, arguing that such interference undermines democratic principles and local autonomy within the party.
His remarks reflected growing dissatisfaction with internal dynamics he believes have weakened inclusivity.
In his resignation letter addressed to the Ikpoba-Okha Ward 7 Chairman of the APC, Agbonayinma said the party had drifted away from the inclusive ideals upon which it was originally built.
He described the situation as distressing, stating that the party in his constituency had become dominated by a few individuals exercising disproportionate influence.
He further expressed frustration that individuals who, according to him, did not fully support the party during past elections were now in positions where they could influence decisions affecting loyal members.
This, he argued, contradicted the principles of fairness and internal democracy.
Agbonayinma also raised concerns over the allocation of federal appointments within the state, alleging that representation had been skewed in favour of a particular geopolitical zone.
He suggested that qualified individuals from his own area had been overlooked for key positions, a development he linked to internal party politics and external influence.
In his account, he referenced attempts to secure positions within federal institutions, including the Code of Conduct Bureau, claiming that his candidacy was blocked despite his qualifications and contributions to the party.
He described these experiences as part of a broader pattern of exclusion.
He also alleged that interventions from senior political figures influenced local party decisions, particularly in candidate selection processes within his ward.
According to him, such interventions undermined agreed procedures and contributed to tensions within the party’s grassroots structure.
Agbonayinma stated that his decision to leave the APC was not taken lightly, but followed what he described as careful reflection on developments within the party.
He maintained that his continued membership would be inconsistent with his principles, especially given what he sees as a lack of respect for internal democracy.
The former lawmaker concluded that leadership should be measured by the ability to empower constituents and provide opportunities for representation.
He said his resignation was necessary in order to align with his values and the interests of his supporters.
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The development adds to ongoing discussions about internal cohesion within political parties in Nigeria, particularly as stakeholders position themselves ahead of future electoral cycles.
