Ondo: APC Chieftain Resigns, Calls Party ‘Weapon of Poverty and Misery

Gbogi Emmanuel, a key figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, has announced his resignation from the party. Citing deep dissatisfaction with the party’s leadership and its deviation from democratic principles, Emmanuel submitted his resignation letter on September 23, 2024.

In the letter, addressed to the Chairman of Ward 6 in Akoko South West Local Government, Emmanuel expressed disappointment with APC’s failure to uphold values such as fairness, equity, and impartiality. He accused the party of perpetuating poverty and hardship among the Nigerian masses, exacerbated by the ongoing economic difficulties in the country.

Emmanuel’s letter further criticised the party’s conduct in the recent primary elections for the upcoming gubernatorial race in Ondo, describing the process as “shoddy and shabby.” He noted that the APC had strayed from rewarding loyalty and no longer represented the interests of the people, instead becoming a “weapon of poverty and misery.”

His statement read: “I hereby tender my resignation from the APC with immediate effect, after wide consultations with my family, friends, and political associates. My decision stems from the party’s failure to uphold the true tenets of democracy and the shift towards unjust practices, especially in Ondo State.”

The former chieftain also referenced a personal grievance—the revocation of his appointment as the pioneer Caretaker Chairman of Akoko South-South LCDA. This, coupled with his earlier rejection of a Special Assistant role offered by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, further fueled his dissatisfaction. Emmanuel felt the appointment lacked legitimacy and appeared as a demotion, compounding his reasons for stepping down.