A former Delta  House of Assembly speaker,  Victor  Ochei, has resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC), ending nearly a decade of membership in the ruling party.

Mr Ichei’s resignation is contained in a letter   addressed to the Chairman of Ward 4, in Onicha Olona, in the Aniocha Local Government Area of the state.

Mr Ochei’s Media Aide, Dr Austin Edemodu, disclosed this in a statement  in Asaba on Thursday.

The former speaker stated that the resignation  followed  ‘deep reflections and wide consultations’ with political allies, supporters, and associates across Delta State.

Mr Ochei said his decision was driven by the need for “broader growth” and a renewed commitment to political service and democratic development.

 He stated, “I joined the APC in 2016 with sincerity, conviction, and belief in the party’s vision for national progress and inclusive governance.”

Mr Ochei stated that in the last years, he contributed significantly to strengthening the APC through grassroots mobilisation, political engagement, and party expansion across communities.

“Together, with many committed party faithful, we expanded the party’s reach, deepened its structures, mobilised support across communities, and worked tirelessly,” Mr Ochei stated.

The former lawmaker noted that he remained committed to leadership, grassroots development, and public service long before many current leaders joined the APC.

Mr Ochei said his years in the party were marked by efforts to promote youth participation, women inclusion, democratic growth, and stronger political structures within the state.

He,  however, stressed that political institutions and leadership must continue evolving to reflect fairness, inclusion, and the aspirations of the people.

“It is in recognition of this need for broader growth and continuation of my political convictions that I have chosen to chart a new course,” he said.

The former speaker maintained that his resignation was not motivated by bitterness, resentment, or hostility toward any individual or political interest.

“My decision is inspired by my enduring commitment to service, progress, and the political future I envisioned for our people,” he stated.

Mr Ochei expressed appreciation to party faithful, stakeholders, political associates, and supporters, who stood with him throughout his stay in the APC.

He urged his supporters to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and committed to democratic values as he continued his political journey outside the ruling party.

He added, “As I move forward to continue my political journey from the APC, I do so with hope, renewed determination, and faith in the future.”

The former speaker also prayed for peace, unity, and sustained progress in Delta State and Nigeria as a whole.