PDP Exodus: Ihedioha, Others Resign

The recent exodus from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has been a significant development in Nigerian politics, particularly with the resignation of former Imo State Governor, Emeka Ihedioha. On April 23, 2024, Ihedioha announced his resignation from the PDP, citing a misalignment between his personal beliefs and the party’s current trajectory as the primary reason for his departure. His resignation letter was addressed to the PDP chairman in Mbutu Ward, Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State.

Ihedioha, who served as a deputy speaker in the House of Representatives and briefly as the governor of Imo State, expressed his disappointment with the party’s inability to carry out internal reforms, enforce its own rules, or offer credible opposition to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He stated that despite his attempts to offer counsel, the PDP had deviated from its core principles, leading to his decision to resign.

The former governor’s resignation came amid growing dissatisfaction within the PDP, particularly in the South-east region, where the party’s dominance has significantly diminished. Ihedioha’s departure from the PDP was also influenced by a power struggle with Senator Samuel Anyanwu, who has been confirmed as the National Secretary of PDP, a decision that did not align with Ihedioha’s expectations and the South-east caucus of the party.

In his resignation, Ihedioha emphasized his commitment to contributing to the nation’s democratic process and good governance, despite his decision to leave the PDP. His departure, along with that of other members, has raised questions about the future of the opposition party and its ability to challenge the ruling APC in upcoming elections.

The recent exodus from the PDP has sparked discussions and speculations about the potential realignment of political forces in Nigeria, as well as the implications for the 2024 elections. It remains to be seen how the PDP will address the concerns raised by Ihedioha and others who have left the party, and whether it will be able to regain its footing in the South-east and other regions of the country.