Ex-Lawmaker Agbonayinma Dumps APC, Cites Undemocratic Practices

A former member of the House of Representatives, Ehiozuwa Johnson Agbonayinma, has resigned his membership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) with immediate effect, citing concerns over internal party practices.

Agbonayinma, who represented Egor/Ikpoba-Okha Federal Constituency, announced his decision in a resignation letter addressed to the APC chairman of Ikpoba-Okha Ward 6. The letter was made public in Benin City, Edo State, on Wednesday.

He said his exit followed a careful assessment of recent developments within the party, alleging the rise of undemocratic tendencies and undue interference in local party affairs.

“As a foundation member from the days of AC, ACN, ACD and now APC, we worked diligently to build an all-inclusive democratic institution. It is therefore distressing to witness the party in our dear constituency gradually becoming the property of one or a few individuals who are unnecessarily and undemocratically interfering in the political process of the APC in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government,” he said.

Despite his resignation, Agbonayinma did not disclose his next political platform but confirmed his intention to contest in the 2027 general elections, reaffirming his commitment to public service and democratic ideals.

He maintained that he still holds the APC and its members in high regard and expressed appreciation to the party’s state leadership for the camaraderie he experienced during his time in the fold.

Speaking further, the former lawmaker raised concerns over what he described as an imbalance in federal appointments, noting that Edo South Senatorial District has not benefitted as much as Edo North.

He also hinted at feelings of marginalisation within the party, stating that some members had begun to treat him as politically irrelevant.