The Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Edo State, Francis Inegbeniki, has resigned from the party, marking a significant departure from the political scene.
Inegbeniki, a notable APC leader from Esan Central Local Government and Edo Central Senatorial District, was closely associated with Senator Monday Okpebholo, the party’s candidate for the upcoming September 21, 2024, governorship election.
Inegbeniki’s resignation follows the recent departure of Victoria Amu, a former governorship aspirant in the state, highlighting a trend of high-profile exits from the APC. Notably, Inegbeniki and seven others were expelled by his local government on April 21, 2023, after the general election for alleged anti-party activities that reportedly led to the defeat of the party’s House of Assembly candidate. This expulsion, however, was not confirmed by the State Working Committee.
In his resignation letter dated June 8, 2024, addressed to the chairman of Ward 9, Opoji in Esan Central Local Government, Inegbeniki explained that recent developments within the party were at odds with his core principles and values.
“There comes a time in the life of every man when some hard decisions must be taken not only in one’s interest but in the general interest of his people. This is one of such moments,” he stated.
Inegbeniki reflected on his 25 years of active political involvement, noting his contributions to the APC at various levels and expressing gratitude for the support he has received.
“After 25 years as an active, financial, and dedicated grassroots politician in Edo State, and as one of the founding fathers of the All Progressives Congress in Edo State, I believe that I have contributed my quota to the growth of the party in my ward, local government area, senatorial district, state, and our country, Nigeria,” he noted.
Citing conflicts between recent party developments and his personal values, Inegbeniki decided to reevaluate his political future in Edo State.
“However, some recent developments in the party in my LGA and state conflict with my core principles and values. This has led me to seriously evaluate my political future in Edo State and decide on the way forward,” he explained.
After consulting with family, friends, and political associates, Inegbeniki concluded that resigning from the APC was the best course of action.
“After due consultations with my family, friends, and political associates, I wish to formally inform you of my decision to resign my membership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and my role as the State Vice Chairman,” he wrote. “It is a hard decision, but it is the best in the interest of the good people of my senatorial district.”
Inegbeniki expressed gratitude to the party and his supporters, emphasizing the need for continued progress for Edo State and Nigeria.
“I wish to formally thank the party for availing me the platform upon which I was elected the current party state vice chairman. However, a lot needs to be done to reposition the party in Edo State. I thank all my supporters and followers for their support and loyalty despite the challenges. Now, it is time to chart a new course for the good of all.”
He concluded his letter with well wishes for his former party members and a reaffirmation of his commitment to the future of Nigeria.
“To all my friends, brothers, and sisters in the All Progressives Congress (APC), I wish you well and want you to know that we still remain what we are. I cherish our relationship, and nothing can change it. I believe in the future of Nigeria, and I believe in the Renewed Hope agenda. Together, we shall continue to work for the progress of our dear state, Edo, and the country at large,” he said.
