A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, Mr. Tony Okonigene, on Tuesday officially resigned from the party.

This was contained in a letter he signed and made available to newsmen in Benin.

Okonigene, whose new political party remains unknown, called on the people of Edo Central to use the August 16th senatorial bye-election to rally strong support for Governor Monday Okpebholo, so he can be encouraged to bring the much-needed dividends of democracy to the people.

He also declined his recent appointment as Director of Media, Publicity, and Strategy of the Edo Central Campaign Council for the August 16, 2025, bye-election.

He thanked the PDP for providing him with the opportunity to serve in various capacities during his time with the party.

The letter read: “I write to formerly inform you of my decision to resign as a member of the Peoples Democratic Party. This decision was taken after due consultations with my God, family members, and close associates.

“I remain grateful to the party for the several opportunities given to me to serve in various capacities, leading to my election as a member of the State Executive Committee.

“I also wish to decline my recent appointment as the Director, Media, Publicity and Strategy of the Edo Central Campaign Council for the August 16, 2025, bye-election. It will be difficult for me to market a product I know cannot be bought.

“Moreover, I strongly believe that we as Esan people should use the upcoming Senatorial Bye-Election to show strong support for our son, His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo, so that he can be encouraged to bring the much-needed dividends of democracy to our people.”