Gbogi Emmanuel, a prominent leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, has stepped down from the party, accusing it of abandoning democratic values like fairness, justice, and transparency. In a letter dated September 23, 2024, addressed to the Chairman of Ward 6, Akoko South West Local Government, Emmanuel outlined his reasons for leaving.
He criticized the APC for contributing to the growing poverty and suffering across the country, which is reflected in the current economic difficulties. Emmanuel also expressed his frustration with the conduct of the party’s primary election, which he believed was flawed, especially in selecting the candidate for the upcoming November gubernatorial election.
In his resignation letter, Emmanuel stated: "I hereby officially inform the leadership of the APC in Ondo State and Nigeria of my immediate resignation from the party." He explained that this decision came after extensive consultations with family, friends, and political allies.
He pointed out the APC’s failure to adhere to the core principles of democracy, such as equity and fairness, adding that loyalty was no longer rewarded, and the party had become a tool for spreading poverty and hardship. Emmanuel also referenced his removal from his previous position as the pioneer Caretaker Chairman of the Akoko South-South LCDA as part of the party's new standard of unfair treatment.
In an earlier move, Emmanuel had rejected an offer to serve as Special Assistant to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, citing concerns over the appointment’s validity and his belief that it represented a downgrade. His resignation sheds light on internal discord within the APC, which has recently been embroiled in political crises, including issues with Deputy Governor Aiyedatiwa’s reconciliation efforts facilitated by President Bola Tinubu.
