The Labour Party in Edo State has mocked its former governorship aspirant, Kenneth Imasuagbon, following his resignation from the party, describing him as a member who was never fully committed.
Imasuagbon’s departure was formalized through a resignation letter addressed to the party’s National Chairman, Julius Abure, with a copy sent to his Ward 2 chairman in Ewohimi, Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo State.
In his resignation, the former APC and PDP member criticized the LP, citing internal struggles and dissatisfaction with the party’s leadership.
However, Sam Uruopa, the Labour Party’s Publicity Secretary in Edo, downplayed the significance of Imasuagbon’s exit, stating that his departure would not affect the party’s growth or prospects.
Uruopa remarked that the party was not surprised by Imasuagbon’s decision, as his main interest was securing the governorship ticket, a goal that did not materialize.
He urged loyal party members to stay committed to building the LP, despite the resignation of one of its former aspirants, according to NaijaNews.
Uruopa said, “We are not surprised that he left the party. He came in search of the governorship ticket but it didn’t work. The advice is for all genuine party men to stay behind and build the party.”
Imasuagbon had lost the LP’s governorship ticket to Olumide Akpata, a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, during the 2024 primaries. Following his defeat, he contested the process in court, but his case was dismissed by both the Federal High Court in Benin and the Appeal Court.
In his resignation statement, Imasuagbon accused the LP leadership of deviating from its core values and principles, making it unable to offer a credible alternative to Nigerians. He also expressed frustration over the party being run like a “commercial entity” and claimed that it no longer represented the interests of ordinary Nigerians.
Imasuagbon, who has been a prominent figure in leadership development and philanthropy in Edo State, stated that after over 25 years of contributions, he could no longer associate with what he described as a party engulfed in confusion and mismanagement. He also criticized the LP for imposing decisions and disregarding party rules.
He stating that, after consulting with his supporters, he had made the decision to leave the LP, which he felt had failed to learn from its mistakes. He highlighted ongoing power struggles and poor leadership as factors contributing to a toxic environment within the party.
“I am using this medium to announce my resignation from the Labour Party. Having consulted widely with my teaming supporters across the state, it is only expedient for me and my followers to make this decision.
“It is quite clear that the LP has not learnt any lesson and very obvious that it is not ready to enthrone purposeful leadership at all levels.
“Intra-party squabble and power struggle are creating a toxic environment and making it difficult for members to remain committed to the party.
“What we have witnessed as far as I am concerned is poor leadership and ineffective management, lack of vision and autocratic decision-making.
“If you take a critical look at the party today, you will discover that many notable leaders who founded the LP have left the political party,” he said.
