Otunba Oladele-Balogun, a former federal commissioner, Public Complaints Commission and strong leader of the People’s Democratic Party in Akoko Edo local government of Edo state, has turned in his letter of resignation from the party to the Chairman of his ward in Ugbogbo, Igarra.
His resignation letter says: “… recent actions and decisions by the Government and its leadership have profoundly conflicted with my personal values and the core principles I believed our party stood for.” Below is the full text of his letter… 23rd May 2024
The Chairman
PDP Ward 1 Ugbogbo Igarra
Dear Chairman.
I am writing to formally resign from The Peoples Democratic Party, effective immediately. This decision has not been made lightly, but after considerable reflections, I find it necessary to take this step.
The party has changed drastically in content and form over the last 4 years , that it has become almost unrecognisable as the party I joined with much enthusiasm in 1999. I had the privilege of serving the Party, our State and Country as a Federal Commissioner in the Presidency and in the Public Complaints Commission, then under the National Assembly .
I also ran two elections to the National Assembly and supported several elections in every way imaginable including the election of the current government in Edo State. I have dedicated myself to the values and mission of our party, over the years. In consequence I have been a major plank in my Federal constituency, my Senatorial district and the State. Not necessary to say my Federal Constituency has consistently been the largest contributor to PDP votes in the Edo North Senatorial district. In recent actions and decisions by the Government and its leadership, it has conflicted with my personal values and the core principles I believed our party stood for.
It has become clear that the direction in which the party is headed is no longer one that I can support in good conscience. I have always believed in integrity, transparency and accountability in public service and also that politics should always be centred on persistent efforts at harmony, reward loyalty and consistency not friction and complete disregard for historical sacrifices and contributions from Senior party members and followers alike. Unfortunately, the recent policies and strategies pursued by our government and its leadership reflect a deviation from these essential principles.
The disconnect between the party’s current stance and my own beliefs makes it impossible for me to continue my association with the PDP. However, my commitment to serving our community and working towards meaningful change remains unwavering. I will continue to advocate for the issues that matter to me and through different avenues that align more closely with my values and vision for our future.
I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences I have had during my time with the party (PDP). I have had the privilege of working with many dedicated individuals, and I wish the party success in its future endeavors. Please consider this letter as my formal resignation from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and all related roles and responsibilities.
I trust that the necessary arrangements will be made promptly to reflect and act on this change.
Sincerely,
Otunba Oladele Bankole-Balogun .
Oteniete of Igarra Federal Commissioner ,
Public Complaints Commission. (2012-2015)
Cc : Chief Hilary Otsu State Secretary
PDP Benin-City Chief Dan Osi Orbih
National Vice Chairman PDP
