Blow To PDP As Obasanjo Quits, Tears Membership Card

The former head of state, who teared his membership card in public, expressed his dissatisfaction with the running of the government by the ruling regime.

Obasanjo's move was not a surprise to many as his influence in the party had been declining.

He accused President Jonathan Goodluck, whom he once mentored, of ignoring his advice as well as that of other leaders.

Mr. Obasanjo has been a fierce critic of President Goodluck, who is seeking re-election on a PDP ticket.

President Goodluck is facing strong opposition from All Progressives Congress' (APC's) candidate Muhammadu Buhari.

The elections were set for February 14th, 2014 but were postponed following increased cases of insecurity resulting from activities of the Boko Haram militia group.

Obasanjo's decision is a major blow to PDP and shows deepening cracks in the party that is seeking to extend its 15-year rule.

In a statement, the PDP described Mr. Obasanjo as a "revered leader of our party" and that it was "deeply saddened" by his resignation.

It added that it was "bewildered" by the former President's choice to tear up his party membership card in public.

Mr. Obasanjo, 77, was a founding member of the PDP and led the party to two resounding victories after military rule ended in 1999.

By Tom Omulo.