### Personal and Political Background
Hon. (Sir) Clem Aziegbemi, a prominent figure in Edo State politics, has been an influential member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Residing at No. 2, Emunekhua Road, Orakhuan – Unemen Emu, in Esan South East, Aziegbemi has held various positions within the party and the state government, including his most recent role as a Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency Godwin Obaseki. Known for his dedication to public service, he has also served as one of the spokespersons for the PDP’s Governorship candidate.
### Addressing the Party Leadership
In his resignation letter, dated May 30, 2024, and addressed to the Chairman of PDP Ward 5 in Esan South East Local Government Area, Aziegbemi articulates his decision to leave the PDP. He begins by formally announcing his resignation effective immediately, citing internal divisions within the party as the primary reason for his departure. These divisions, he notes, have not been adequately addressed by the party’s leadership, resulting in a significant number of defections from the PDP to opposition parties within the state.
### Critique of Party Leadership
Aziegbemi attributes these defections to the “conquest attitude” of the PDP leadership, which he believes has failed to integrate loyal party members into key appointments despite their efforts and contributions. He emphasizes that long-standing members, including himself, have been overlooked in favor of new entrants, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among the party’s core supporters.
### Concerns About Election Prospects
He further expresses concerns about the party’s prospects in the upcoming Edo State Governorship election scheduled for September 21, 2024. According to Aziegbemi, the ongoing internal issues and the exclusionary practices of the leadership could severely hinder the PDP’s chances of winning any local government seats. He also highlights the problematic influence of “political jobbers” who he claims have taken control of the party’s Governorship candidate, sidelining those who worked hard to secure the candidate’s nomination.
### Formal Resignation from Positions
Aziegbemi’s letter serves as his formal resignation not only from the PDP but also from his roles and responsibilities within the party and the state government. This includes his position as one of the spokespersons for the Governorship candidate and his appointment as Senior Special Assistant to the Governor. His resignation reflects deep-seated frustrations and a lack of confidence in the current party leadership’s ability to rectify the issues plaguing the PDP.
### Concluding Remarks
In his closing, Aziegbemi conveys his gratitude and bids farewell to his colleagues, underscoring the gravity of his decision. His resignation marks a significant moment in Edo State politics, potentially influencing other dissatisfied members and impacting the PDP’s strategy and cohesion ahead of the forthcoming elections.
### Implications and Future Outlook
Aziegbemi’s resignation underscores the critical challenges facing the PDP in Edo State. His departure signals a call for introspection and reform within the party. If the issues he raised remain unaddressed, the PDP could face further fragmentation and weakening of its political base. As the election approaches, the party’s ability to unify and present a cohesive front will be crucial in determining its electoral success.
