Edo PDP In Crisis: Asue/Ogie Campaign DG, Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, Dumps Party
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State is reeling from another significant blow as Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, a prominent political figure and the Director-General of the Asue/Ogie Campaign Council, has officially resigned from the party. His departure, effective around July 17, 2025, amplifies the deep-seated internal crises plaguing both the Edo State chapter and the national PDP leadership.
A Wave of Departures and Deep Reflection
Iduoriyekemwen's exit comes amidst a noticeable exodus of key figures from the PDP, including veteran journalist Dele Momodu, and the confirmed departure of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. In his resignation letter, addressed to officials of his Ikpoba-Okha Ward 5, Iduoriyekemwen cited "deep reflection" and a profound disconnect from the party's foundational principles. He explicitly stated that "The PDP no longer aligns with the vision of a democratic, inclusive party." For now, Iduoriyekemwen has indicated a focus on family and business, rather than an immediate defection to another political platform.
PDP's Deepening Woes: Edo and Beyond
Iduoriyekemwen's resignation is far from an isolated incident; it serves as a stark indicator of the profound issues crippling the PDP, particularly in Edo State:
Edo PDP's Internal Strife: The Edo State chapter of the PDP remains embroiled in severe internal conflicts and factionalism, a situation exacerbated by its defeat in the September 21, 2024, governorship election. The battle for political relevance and incessant infighting among various factions has intensified, compounded by a string of defections by key party members, including lawmakers and former government officials, to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
National Turmoil Echoes: The crisis within the PDP extends to the national level, marked by persistent leadership disputes, lingering fallout from the 2023 presidential primary election, and sharp divisions among various power blocs. These national rifts inevitably ripple down, severely impacting state chapters like Edo.
Supreme Court's Aftermath: The Supreme Court's recent affirmation of Senator Monday Okpebholo as Edo State Governor has further plunged the PDP into despair and exacerbated internal wrangling, despite the party's candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, having thanked supporters.
Dwindling Prospects: Iduoriyekemwen himself had recently voiced his deep dissatisfaction with the party's trajectory, reportedly foreclosing victory for the PDP in upcoming by-elections in Edo State. He was quoted saying, "We cannot continue like this... If Asue's votes didn't count, I see any election that will count. So, we must sit down and take a decision," highlighting his severe disillusionment with the party's current state and future.
Exodus of Stalwarts: His departure joins a growing list of prominent members abandoning the PDP, many citing similar concerns about eroding democratic values and internal disarray.
Matthew Iduoriyekemwen: A Political Journey
Matthew Iduoriyekemwen is a veteran of Edo State politics with a long and storied career:
He served as a member representing Ikpoba Okha LGA in the Edo State House of Assembly from 1999 to 2007, holding influential positions such as Majority Leader (1999-2003) and Chairman of the House Committee on State Security.
A founding member of the PDP in Edo State since its inception in 1998.
He has made multiple bids for the PDP governorship ticket in Edo State, notably in 2012 and 2016.
He also served as a Federal Commissioner representing Edo State in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) from 2005 to 2009.
His political path has seen him navigate between the PDP and APC, notably joining the APC in 2017 during a PDP crisis, only to return to the PDP alongside Governor Godwin Obaseki ahead of the 2020 Edo governorship election.
Iduoriyekemwen's resignation is undeniably a significant blow to the PDP in Edo State, given his crucial leadership role in the last governorship campaign and his extensive history with the party. His departure further underscores the formidable challenges the PDP faces in uniting its ranks and projecting a formidable front in future political contests.
