Why Ex-Defence Minister Bello Mohammed Dumped PDP and Retired From Politics
Former Minister of Defence and a founding pillar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bello Haliru Mohammed, has formally withdrawn from partisan politics and resigned his membership of the party after over 40 years of public service.
Naija News reports that Mohammed confirmed his decision in a letter dated November 14, 2025, addressed to the PDP Chairman of Nassarawa Ward 1, Birnin Kebbi Local Government Area of Kebbi State. Copies of the letter were also sent to the PDP state chairman, national chairman and the Chairman of the Board of Trustees.
The former PDP Board of Trustees chairman said his decision followed “deep reflection” and a sense of fulfilment after decades spent in public service and nation-building.
Mohammed, who recently turned 80, said he believed the time had come for him to take a well-deserved rest and allow younger leaders steer the future of the party and the country.
He wrote, “It has been a rare privilege to serve our nation and our party in various capacities.
“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.”
Mohammed is widely regarded as one of the central figures who helped shape the PDP during its years as Nigeria’s ruling party.
His notable positions include:
Minister of Communications (1999–2001)
Acting National Chairman, PDP (2011)
Minister of Defence (2011–2012)
Chairman, PDP Board of Trustees (2015)
Outside party politics, he also played key roles in public administration, national security reforms and political restructuring in the Fourth Republic.
Reflecting on his long career, Mohammed said he had lived through the highs and lows of Nigeria’s democratic evolution and remained grateful for the opportunity to serve.
He expressed appreciation to party leaders, supporters and associates for their loyalty and cooperation over the years.
He said, “I have witnessed Nigeria’s trials and triumphs. I remain grateful for the opportunity to contribute in whatever way I could.”
Though stepping away from partisan politics, Mohammed said he would remain available to offer guidance whenever called upon in the interest of the nation.
“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 assured.