A former Minister of Aviation and a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Osita Chidoka, has resigned from the party and quit partisan politics.
Chidoka said this was to enable him to focus on his non-profit organisation, the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership, a nonpartisan research institute he founded, to join hands with other Nigerians who are interested in reforming the political system in Nigeria.
He said this on Friday when he appeared as a guest on Channels Television’s Politics Today.
“Earlier today, I sent a letter to my ward in Anambra State resigning officially from the PDP. I am leaving the PDP, I am leaving politic for some time, I am focusing on the Athena Centre,” said Chidoka, who also served as the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
“I will work in concert with other Nigerians who want us to reform the political system to bring evidence-based governance and to support it. So, effective today, I am no longer a member of the Peoples Democratic Party.”
In the resignation letter addressed to the PDP Chairman of Obosi Ward in Anambra State, which was made available to the media, Chidoka thanked the party for the opportunity it gave him to serve the country in different capacities.
Chidoka recalled how he was part of the PDP’s journey from inception, including being present at the historic Jos Convention in 1998, and contributing to the drafting of important documents like the PDP Manifesto and others.
He said it was through the PDP that he had the privilege to serve as the Corps Marshall of the FRSC and later as Minister of Aviation, positions that enabled him to contribute meaningfully to national development and public service.
He said, however, that his new focus on the Athena Centre demanded his full attention and required him to take a neutral stance, free from partisan affiliations.
“As I step away from 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,” he said.
