Well thanks to all this knowledge I got it out! Took me a little effort , long adjustable pliers, some liquid wrench and it came out
Funny piece of pipe in there - no taper - perhaps some home brew fix in the past? Now I just need to get over to the Co-Op and get a post that fits. ( and some new pedals - one looks like it got too close to the camp fire ...)
Thanks all!

Well thanks to all this knowledge I got it out! Took ma little effort , long adjustable pliers, some liquid wrench and it came out
Funny piece of pipe in there - no taper - perhaps some home brew fix in the past? Now I just need to get over to the Co-Op and get a post that fits.
Thanks all!
.