- Inegbeniki and seven others were expelled from the party by his local government on April 21, 2023, after the general election, over alleged anti-party activities that purportedly led to the defeat of the party’s House of Assembly candidate
The Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, Francis Inegbeniki, has resigned from the party.
Inegbeniki, a strong APC chieftain from Esan Central Local Government and Edo Central Senatorial District, was affiliated with the party’s candidate for the forthcoming September 21, 2024, governorship election, Senator Monday Okpebholo.
Recall that Inegbeniki and seven others were expelled from the party by his local government on April 21, 2023, after the general election, over alleged anti-party activities that purportedly led to the defeat of the party’s House of Assembly candidate. However, this expulsion was not ratified by the State Working Committee.
In his resignation letter dated June 8, 2024, and addressed to the chairman of Ward 9, Opoji in Esan Central Local Government, the former state chairman of the party stated that he made this decision due to recent developments in the party in his local government area and state.
He explained that these developments conflict with his core principles and values.
He acknowledged that although the decision was difficult, it was in the best interest of the good people of his senatorial district.
According to the letter: “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.
“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 (APC) 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.
“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.
“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.
“It is a hard decision, but it is the best in the interest of the good people of my senatorial district.
“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.
“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