PDP loses former research director as Anenih steps aside

• Anenih said ideas, policy and principled debate were essential in shaping Nigeria’s future and pledged to continue driving them.
• In April, Anenih criticised PDP governors, claiming they lacked courage to confront President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 polls.

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, Ose Anenih, has resigned his membership of the party with immediate effect.

Anenih, who is the son of the late Tony Anenih, a former chairman of the PDP board of trustees, confirmed the decision in a letter to the ward chairman of Arue Ward 3 in Uromi, Edo State.

He had previously served as the party’s director of research and strategy during the September 21, 2024 Edo governorship election.

“This decision was not made lightly,” he wrote.

“From the very beginning, I have stood with the PDP through its triumphs and its trials, bound by a belief in the promise of Nigerian democracy and in the ideals that first drew me to the Umbrella.”

He noted that his time in the party offered him enduring friendships, valuable lessons and experiences that shaped both his politics and person.

Anenih explained that he was stepping back from partisan politics to prioritise his family and other pressing responsibilities.

“At this point in my life, however, I must step back from the arena of partisan politics,” he said.

“My duty now lies first with my family and with other responsibilities that demand my full attention.”

He stressed that his commitment to Nigeria’s development remained firm despite his resignation from the party.

“I will continue to contribute to intellectual and civic conversations that seek to improve governance and, above all, the lives of the governed,” he added.

He maintained that ideas, policy and principled debate were critical tools in shaping the country’s future and pledged to continue engaging in such work.

Anenih thanked the PDP and its members across different levels for their goodwill, support and camaraderie throughout his political journey.

“I wish the party well, and I remain hopeful for a Nigeria that truly fulfils its promise to all her citizens,” he said.

In April, Anenih had criticised PDP governors, saying they “do not have the balls” to challenge President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.