From Ifeoma Ejiofor
The former Minister of Aviation, Chief Osita Chidoka(Ike Obosi) has resigned from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
The resignation letter dated 29th November, which was made available to journalists was addressed to the Chairman of the party in Obosi Ward in Idemili North LGA of Anambra State.
The former Corp Marshall of FRSC said, “This decision was challenging. I was privileged to be part of the PDP’s journey from its inception, including my presence at the historic Jos convention in 1998.
“As a young man and a foundational member of the PDP, I bought into the vision of the umbrella as a metaphor for inclusion, equal
opportunities, and equity—the basic ingredients of our nation-building project.
“In 2005, under President Obasanjo’s leadership, I became one of the party’s leading
intellectual ideologues, contributing to the development of key documents such as the PDP
Manifesto, the Desirable Qualities of Candidates used for screening presidential aspirants in 2007, and the transformative roadmap, The New PDP: Transforming from
a Successful Election Vehicle to an Agenda-Setting Institution.
“I have also played significant roles in three presidential campaigns (2007, 2019, and 2023).
“Through the PDP, I was honoured to serve as the Federal Road Safety Corps Marshal and later
as a senior cabinet minister. These opportunities enabled me to contribute meaningfully to
national development and public service, experiences for which I remain deeply grateful.
“However, my current focus is on the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership—a nonpartisan
research institute and think tank dedicated to providing data-driven, objective policy recommendations. The Centre’s mission demands my full attention and requires me to take a neutral stance, free from partisan affiliations.
“As I step away from active partisan politics, I remain committed to good governance, national
unity, and evidence-based and honest public service. I look forward to a future where I can
once again contribute directly to the political landscape, aligned with the values I hold dear.
“I leave the PDP with immense respect and gratitude and wish the party every success as it
continues to reposition itself as a force for positive change in Nigeria.
I conclude with my lifelong mantra: our national aspiration of building a nation where no man is oppressed will be realised sooner rather than later.
“I remain hopeful of a renascent Nigeria guided by the spirit of Naija—that shared space where ethnicity and religion do not impede our collective aspirations for a great nation.