Olugbenga Edema, the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) candidate in the upcoming November 16, 2024, Ondo State governorship election, has formally resigned from the party.
Edema announced his decision in a letter dated May 9, 2025, addressed to the NNPP chairman in Mahin Ward 11, Ilaje Local Government Area.
“I wish to humbly inform you of my intention to resign my membership of the party forthwith,” he wrote.
His departure follows legal setbacks after both the Akure Division of the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal dismissed his case challenging the legitimacy of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary that produced Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and his running mate, Olayide Adelami.
Edema had sought a court ruling directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to revoke the APC candidates’ nominations, citing constitutional irregularities.
However, the court struck out the case after the NNPP, listed as a co-plaintiff, withdrew from the suit, stating it had not been consulted before the filing.
In his resignation letter, Edema criticised the NNPP for internal conflicts and a lack of clear political direction, claiming the leadership acted against the interest of its own candidate.
“In over 35 years of political engagement, I have never seen a party so treacherous as to frustrate its own candidate by siding with the opposition,” he said.
He added that the party’s internal disarray made it unfit for serious electoral contests.
Edema’s exit marks a notable shift in the party’s dynamics ahead of the 2024 governorship race.
He was one of over 15 candidates who contested the seat against Governor Aiyedatiwa.
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