Less than two weeks ahead of the highly anticipated Edo State governorship election, four key aides to Governor Godwin Obaseki have announced their resignation from both their official posts and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The group includes Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) to the Governor, as well as Dr. Pamela Archer, who also stepped down as Special Adviser to Owan East Local Government Council.

The resignation letters, dated September 4 and 6, 2024, were directed to the council chairman and the chairmen of their respective wards, signaling their formal departure.

Among the resigning aides are Osayande Emenya (Ward 6), Henry Osaheni Ukato (Ward 6), Efosa Edo-Osagie (Ward 6, Oredo Local Government), and Timothy Edokpolor (Ward 8, Ikpoba Okha Local Government).

The group had previously held leadership roles within the party and the government, making their departure notable, especially so close to the election.

In their resignation letters, both Osayande Emenya, a former Youth Leader of Ward 6, and Efosa Edo-Osagie cited unpaid salaries since their appointment as SSAs to the Edo State Governor as one of the main reasons for their decision.

They expressed disappointment over the failure to compensate them, despite their efforts to serve the administration and the party.

Additionally, they voiced grievances about the marginalization of long-time PDP members, who they believe have been sidelined since the party’s recent changes.

The former aides explained that their decision to resign from both the party and their appointments was driven by their strong belief in fairness, equity, and justice—principles they claim no longer hold sway in the PDP, particularly at the ward level.

“We are stepping down based on the principles of equity, fairness, and justice that we hold dear, which have ceased to exist within our party.

Moreover, we have seen the marginalization of the aboriginal PDP members, who have tirelessly sustained this party before it was infiltrated, despite multiple complaints,” they stated.

Despite their decision to leave, they expressed gratitude to the leadership of the party and Governor Obaseki for the opportunity to serve in their respective capacities, acknowledging the time they had spent working for the administration.

Dr. Pamela Archer, who resigned as Special Adviser to Owan East Local Government Council, pointed to a lack of inclusiveness in governance and decision-making processes as the catalyst for her departure.

In her resignation letter, dated September 4, 2024, she expressed dissatisfaction with how decisions were made without consulting key executives, undermining the council’s collective efforts.

“It has been a privilege to serve, but I must express concern over the decision-making process.

Important decisions are made without input from the executives, which I believe undermines the potential for effective governance,” she wrote.

Pamela emphasized the importance of a governance system that values diverse perspectives and contributions, ensuring decisions are made in the best interest of the people.

She added that the current leadership style did not reflect these values, leading her to step away.

“Regrettably, I can no longer be part of a system that does not appreciate my input as an executive member,” she stated.

In closing, Pamela expressed hope that her resignation would draw attention to the need for a more collaborative and participatory approach to governance, which she believes is essential for the development and progress of Owan East.

She underscored that her decision was made in the spirit of integrity, transparency, and a commitment to the betterment of the community.

This wave of resignations highlights growing internal tensions within the PDP in Edo State, potentially signaling broader dissatisfaction within the party ranks just weeks before the election.

As these prominent figures exit the stage, the political landscape in Edo State may face further shifts in the coming days.