The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State has dismissed the resignation of its State Publicity Secretary, Mr. Kennedy Ikantu Peretei, amid growing internal tensions within the party. In what appears to be a bid to quell looming cracks, the leadership of the party, led by the Chairman of the State Caretaker Committee, Dr. Bakitta Bello, stormed Akure on Friday to personally appeal to the aggrieved spokesman to reconsider his stance.
Peretei had, on Wednesday, submitted his resignation letter to his ward executives in Arogbo Ward 1, situated in the Ese-Odo Local Government Area. In the letter, he cited frustration over what he described as “self-serving tendencies” among some leaders within the party. The move sent shockwaves across the state political landscape, with many describing his intended exit as a major loss to the PDP considering his active role in party communications and public engagements.
However, Dr. Bello, while addressing Peretei during the visit, maintained that the issues currently plaguing the state chapter of the party, though regrettable, should not warrant such a drastic decision from a loyal stakeholder. She urged him to put the broader interest of the party above personal grievances, describing him as a dedicated party man whose role remains crucial ahead of the upcoming governorship election.
“Yes, you have the right to be displeased, and your concerns are valid. But you must understand that party decisions often stem from a mix of circumstances. As a seasoned politician, you know this,” Bello told Peretei. “We are here because we value your contribution to the PDP and we strongly believe that this is not the time to walk away. Your resignation is hereby rejected. We appeal to you to rescind the decision and stand by the party in this critical moment.”
Responding to the delegation, Peretei opened up on the reasons behind his decision to bow out of the party, noting that he had been left disillusioned by the attitude of certain individuals he once trusted within the PDP hierarchy. According to him, recent developments had left him feeling betrayed and alienated, sparking a deep sense of disappointment.
While the meeting ended on a conciliatory note, with the party expressing optimism that the embattled spokesman would reconsider his position, political observers are closely watching how the PDP intends to manage the growing discontent within its ranks, particularly as Ondo prepares for a high-stakes gubernatorial race later this year.
The rejection of Peretei’s resignation appears to be a calculated step by the party’s caretaker leadership to stabilize internal dynamics and project unity, especially at a time when political realignments are gathering momentum across the state.
