Former Edo Senator Ehigie Uzamere Resigns from PDP, Citing Personal Convictions and Fresh Political Direction

Former Edo Senator Uzamere Dumps PDP — Cites Personal Convictions for Exit

In a significant political shift amid Nigeria's evolving opposition landscape, former two-term Senator Ehigie Edobor Uzamere has formally resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing personal convictions and a renewed commitment to serving his constituents. The announcement, dated October 7, 2025, and addressed to the PDP Ward 12 Chairman in Ovia North-East Local Government Area, Edo State, marks another blow to the PDP's influence in the South-South region. Uzamere, a veteran lawmaker and ally of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, expressed gratitude for the party's past opportunities while emphasizing that his decision stems from a desire for fresh direction rather than bitterness. As speculation swirls about his potential move to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), this development highlights the ongoing realignments ahead of the 2027 elections. This article examines Uzamere's resignation letter, his storied political career, the PDP's challenges in Edo, and the broader implications for Nigeria's opposition dynamics.

A Letter of Gratitude and Resolve

Ehigie Uzamere's resignation letter, submitted to Mr. Osaigbovo Godspower, the PDP Ward 12 Chairman in Ovia North-East, underscores a measured exit from the party that once propelled him to national prominence. In the document, Uzamere stated, “I therefore wish to formally tender my resignation from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) while expressing my sincere appreciation for the opportunities and experiences the Party afforded me in the past.” He clarified that the move is “not driven by animosity, but by conviction and continued commitment to the service of his people,” signaling a principled departure rooted in ideological differences and a quest for more effective platforms to advocate for Edo South's interests.

The timing of the resignation, coinciding with the inauguration of the ADC in Edo State—where Uzamere was spotted among attendees—fuels speculation of an imminent switch. Social media reactions on X, including posts from @NigeriaNewsdesk and @pmnewsnigeria, have amplified the news, with users debating whether this reflects deeper PDP fractures or a strategic pivot toward emerging coalitions. Uzamere's emphasis on service over strife positions him as a bridge-builder, potentially appealing to disillusioned PDP loyalists seeking alternatives.

A Trailblazing Career in Edo and National Politics

Ehigie Edobor Uzamere's political journey is a testament to resilience and cross-party adaptability, having served as Senator for Edo South from 2007 to 2015. Born on June 1, 1955, in Oredo Local Government Area, Uzamere first entered the Senate in 2007 on the PDP platform, where he chaired committees on Security & Intelligence, Local and Foreign Debts, and Housing. His reelection in 2011 under the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN)—a precursor to the All Progressives Congress (APC)—made history as the first senator from Edo South to secure two consecutive terms, defeating PDP's Daisy Danjuma with 135,346 votes.

During his tenure, Uzamere sponsored key legislation, including the Nigerian Communication Commission Act (Amendment) Bill 2009 and the Nigerian Institute of Cost Management Bill 2008, earning praise for his focus on infrastructure, culture, and tourism. Post-Senate, he remained influential, reconciling PDP factions in Edo during turbulent times and aligning with Atiku Abubakar's 2023 presidential bid. His family legacy adds depth: his wife, Princess Helen Uzamere, is a Nollywood actress and former House of Representatives aspirant, while his son, Andrew Uzamere, serves as a PDP lawmaker in the Edo State House of Assembly—though recent defections in the family circle, like Andrew's brief APC flirtation, underscore shifting allegiances. Uzamere's conviction-driven exit echoes his 2016 PDP resignation amid governorship ambitions, highlighting a pattern of bold, conviction-led moves.

PDP's Mounting Challenges in Edo State

Uzamere's departure exacerbates the PDP's vulnerabilities in Edo State, a battleground where the party has struggled to regain footing since Godwin Obaseki's 2020 switch from APC. Recent months have seen a cascade of exits, including two state lawmakers—Eugene Ojie Inegbeboh and Andrew Uzamere—who defected to the APC in July 2025, citing internal crises and a desire for "accelerated development" under Governor Monday Okpebholo.84232f The PDP's Edo chapter, once bolstered by figures like Uzamere, now grapples with factionalism, funding shortages, and electoral setbacks, as evidenced by the APC's sweep in the 2024 governorship race.

Analysts point to the party's failure to resolve primaries disputes and its perceived disconnect from youth and economic issues as key drivers of defections. Uzamere's exit, as an Atiku ally, could erode the PDP's opposition coalition, especially with the ADC positioning itself as a fresh alternative for 2027. Posts on X from @TrumpetNews24 and @FastTrackNewsNg reflect public sentiment, with many viewing it as a "wake-up call" for PDP reforms. The party's response—silent thus far—may hinge on retaining mid-tier loyalists like Andrew Uzamere, who reaffirmed PDP commitment in June 2025

Implications for Nigeria's Opposition Ahead of 2027

Uzamere's resignation signals accelerating fragmentation within Nigeria's opposition, potentially reshaping alliances as the 2027 elections loom. His likely ADC move aligns with Atiku's subtle overtures toward coalitions challenging the APC's dominance, echoing the 2023 Labour Party surge. In Edo, this could bolster the ADC's grassroots push, drawing PDP defectors disillusioned by the party's 40% youth unemployment rhetoric without actionable plans.

In conclusion Nationally, Uzamere's conviction-based narrative may inspire similar exits, pressuring the PDP to recalibrate under Iyorchia Ayu or a successor. For Uzamere, aged 70, this chapter offers a platform to mentor emerging leaders, perhaps eyeing advisory roles or senatorial comebacks. As X users like @PaulJoseph89562 speculate on his "fresh political direction," his departure underscores a broader quest for platforms prioritizing service over partisanship. In a polarized Nigeria, Uzamere's graceful exit could foster dialogue, reminding stakeholders that political evolution often stems from personal resolve rather than rancor, paving the way for a more unified opposition narrative.

News source:daily post , daily trust