Former Minister of Defence and influential Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Dr. Bello Haliru Mohammed, has announced his retirement from active politics and resignation from the PDP after more than four decades of public service.
Mohammed made his decision known in a letter dated November 14, 2025, addressed to the PDP Chairman of Nassarawa Ward 1 in Birnin Kebbi Local Government Area of Kebbi State. The letter, also copied to the state chairman, national chairman, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, was sighted by our correspondent on Monday.
The 80-year-old statesman said he arrived at the decision after “deep reflection,” noting that he felt fulfilled after years of contributing to Nigeria’s political development. He added that it was time to step aside and allow a younger generation to shape the country’s political future.
“It has been a rare privilege to serve our nation and our party in various capacities,” he wrote. “From my early days in public service to my tenures as Minister of Communications and Minister of Defence, to my service as Acting National Chairman and later Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the PDP, I have always sought to contribute to the unity, progress and democratic consolidation of our dear country.”
Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the PDP’s formative and dominant years, Mohammed served as Minister of Communications (1999–2001), Acting National Chairman of the PDP (2011), Minister of Defence (2011–2012), and Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees (2015).
Beyond politics, he played critical roles in public administration, national security reforms, and party restructuring during the Fourth Republic.
Reflecting on his long career, Mohammed noted that he had witnessed Nigeria’s “trials and triumphs” and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to democratic governance. He thanked colleagues, supporters, and associates for their loyalty throughout the years.
Although exiting partisan politics, he assured that he would remain committed to Nigeria’s unity and good governance. “I shall continue to play my part as an elder citizen, and my experience will always be available whenever my guidance is required in the interest of our nation,” he stated.
Mohammed’s departure is expected to reshape political calculations within the PDP in Kebbi State, where he has long been recognised as a senior adviser, power broker, and grassroots mobiliser.
His exit comes at a time the PDP is intensifying efforts to rebuild and reposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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