Four Key Aides to Governor Obaseki Resign, Citing Marginalisation and Lack of Inclusivity

Less than two weeks before the Edo State governorship election, four senior aides to Governor Godwin Obaseki have tendered their resignations, dealing a significant blow to the administration. The former Special Assistants (SSAs), who also stepped down from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), cited dissatisfaction with the party’s internal processes and governance.

Among the departing aides are Osayande Emenya, Henry Osaheni Ukato, Efosa Edo-Osagie, and Timothy Edokpolor, representing various wards across the state. Dr. Pamela Archer, Special Adviser to Owan East Local Government Council, has also resigned from her role.

In resignation letters dated 4th and 6th September 2024, Emenya and Edo-Osagie highlighted unpaid salaries since their appointment as a major factor in their decision to leave the party and their government roles. They also pointed to what they described as the marginalisation of “aboriginal” PDP members, claiming that longstanding party members had been overlooked following the influx of new members.

In their joint statement, the former aides emphasised their decision was driven by a lack of “equity, fairness, and justice,” values they felt were no longer upheld within the party at the ward level.

“We are resigning based on the principle of equity, fairness, and justice which no longer prevails within our party. The marginalisation of aboriginal PDP members, who have worked tirelessly to sustain the party before its infiltration, has become unbearable,” they said.

Despite their grievances, the departing aides thanked Governor Obaseki and PDP leadership for the opportunity to serve and for the time they spent within the party.

Dr. Pamela Archer, who resigned as Special Adviser to the Owan East Local Government Council, expressed frustration over the exclusion of executives from key decision-making processes within the council. In her resignation letter, she criticised the lack of inclusivity and collaboration, stating that it had hindered her ability to perform her duties effectively.

“It has been a privilege to serve, but I must express my concerns about the decision-making processes within the council,” she wrote. “Decisions are being made without valuable input from executives, undermining the collective effort and potential for effective governance.”

Archer’s resignation, effective 4th September 2024, was driven by her commitment to transparency and good governance. She urged for a more participatory approach, which she believes is crucial for the progress of Owan East.

This wave of resignations comes at a critical time for the PDP in Edo State, as the governorship election approaches, raising questions about party unity and governance under Obaseki’s leadership.