The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Owan, Edo State, has suffered a significant setback with the defection of three-term member and former Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Omon Ezomon.
Ezomon, who represented Owan West Constituency from 1999 to 2007, cited internal discord and marginalization within the PDP as his reason for leaving the party.
In a formal letter dated September 16, 2024, addressed to the PDP Ward 5 Chairman in Avbiosi, Iuleha, Owan West Local Government Area, Ezomon announced his resignation, which he said was effective immediately.
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The former lawmaker expressed disappointment over being sidelined from key decision-making processes at the ward, local government, and state levels, despite his long-standing contributions to the PDP.
Ezomon, who rose to prominence within the party and served as Deputy Speaker during his tenure in the House of Assembly, lamented the loss of influence he has faced in recent years.
He pointed to the growing control of “newcomers” in the party, which he believes has undermined his political legacy and diminished his role within the PDP.
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Reflecting on his decision to leave the PDP, Ezomon underscored the persistent internal strife and unresolved conflicts that have weakened the party’s structure, particularly ahead of the upcoming gubernatorial elections.
He criticized the party’s leadership for failing to foster unity, warning that this disunity could have negative consequences for the PDP’s electoral chances.
In his resignation letter, Ezomon expressed sadness over the current state of the party, noting that ongoing factionalism had made it impossible for him to continue with the PDP.
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“For my peace of Mind and wellbeing, I have chosen to walk away,” Ezomon stated, adding that his departure was the result of “considerable reflection” and consultations with his supporters.
While Ezomon expressed gratitude to the PDP for the opportunities it provided him over the years, he left the door open for future political moves, with speculation already growing about a potential realignment with the All Progressives Congress (APC).
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Ezomon’s exit is expected to further weaken the PDP’s influence in Owan, where the Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, continues to exert influence.