Reports that the former Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) to the governor: Osayande Emenya, Henry Osaheni Ukato, Efosa Edo-Osagie, and Timothy Edokpolor all announced their resignation in letters dated September 4 and 6, 2024 addressed to the Chairmen of their respective wards and councils.
This development is a significant shake-up in the political landscape just two weeks before the gubernatorial election.
Emenya and Edo-Osagie, who were formerly youth leaders and organizing secretaries within the PDP, expressed dissatisfaction with their time in office, citing non-payment of salaries and marginalization of core PDP members as reasons for their resignation.
In their resignation letters, the duo claimed that original party members who had laboured to build the PDP were sidelined after the party experienced an influx of new members.
According to them, this led to an erosion of the principles of equity, fairness, and justice that they once held dear within the party.
“We are also resigning from the party based on the principle of equity, fairness, and justice that we hold dearly, which no longer prevails within our party at the ward levels.
“Coupled with the marginalization of the aboriginal PDP members who have worked assiduously to sustain this party, prior to its infiltration, despite complaints,” they said in a joint statement.
Meanwhile, Dr. Pamela Archer, who served as Special Adviser to Owan East Local Government Council, also tendered her resignation.
She cited the lack of inclusiveness in decision-making and governance within the council as her reason for stepping down.
Archer expressed disappointment that decisions were made without input from the council’s executives, undermining effective governance.
In her resignation letter, Archer said, “It has been a privilege to serve in this capacity.
“However, I must express my concerns about the decision-making processes within the council. Unfortunately, I have observed that decisions are made without valuable input from the executives, which I believe undermines the collective effort and the potential for effective governance.”
She further explained that the lack of inclusivity and collaboration had made it increasingly difficult for her to carry out her duties, prompting her decision to step down.
Archer’s resignation, which became effective on September 4, 2024, was a clear statement about her stance on the importance of integrity and transparency in governance.
“I hope that my resignation will highlight the need for a more inclusive and participatory approach to governance, which I believe is essential for the progress and development of Owan East,” she concluded.
