In a move that underscores the escalating tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, daughter of former Delta State governor James Ibori and member of the House of Representatives for Ethiope federal constituency, has announced her resignation from the party.
Her decision was communicated through a formal letter addressed to the PDP Local Government Chairman in Ethiope West Local Government Area, dated December 5, 2024. The letter, titled “Notice of Resignation of Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu as Member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP),” cited exclusion and leadership struggles as the primary reasons for her departure.
In the letter, Ibori-Suenu stated, “Please be informed that by this notice I formally resign as a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with immediate effect.”
She went further to emphasize her complete disengagement, symbolically surrendering her membership card, numbered 0777144. Explaining her decision, she noted, “My resignation was foisted on me by my complete exclusion by the State chapter of the party and by the lingering national leadership crisis which has driven the party into implacable camps.”
Ibori-Suenu’s resignation is the latest high-profile defection to rock the PDP, a party already grappling with internal discord and waning national influence. As the daughter of a prominent political figure, her departure not only raises questions about the state of affairs within the Delta State PDP chapter but also signals a potential reshuffling of allegiances in the state’s political landscape.
While Ibori-Suenu has not disclosed her next political move, her exit could open a pathway for her to align with another party, potentially altering the dynamics of the federal constituency she represents.
The PDP has faced mounting challenges in recent years, including internal leadership disputes and diminishing electoral victories. The ongoing crises have led to factionalism, leaving key members disillusioned. Analysts argue that such defections are symptomatic of deeper structural issues within the party, including a lack of cohesion and inclusivity.
In Delta State, where the PDP has traditionally held a strong grip, Ibori-Suenu’s departure may embolden opposition parties to exploit cracks within the ruling party.
Political observers and stakeholders are keenly watching to see how this resignation impacts the PDP in Delta State and beyond. Will this serve as a wake-up call for party leaders to address internal grievances, or will it catalyze further defections?
As the dust settles, the spotlight remains on Ibori-Suenu’s political future and how her departure will influence the 2027 general elections.
