Former Deputy National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, has denied reports that the party’s structure in Lagos and across Nigeria is falling apart. He made these remarks during a meeting with party stakeholders in Lagos.
Recently, some Lagos PDP leaders, such as the party’s 2023 gubernatorial candidate, Dr. Abdul-Azeez Adediran (also known as Jandor), and spokesperson Alh. Hakeem Amode, defected to the rival All Progressives Congress (APC). They suggested that the PDP had effectively dissolved into the ruling party. George dismissed their statements as “nonsensical.”
He emphasized that while all organizations face tough times, the PDP has strong roots and will continue to thrive. “I want to assure our leaders that the PDP is very much alive,” George stated. He criticized the defectors, calling them irrelevant and questioning their significance in the party.
George expressed disappointment that a respected PDP elder previously endorsed Jandor, allowing him to represent the party in the last election. He now views that decision as a mistake.
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“It’s absolutely untrue to say the PDP structure in Lagos has collapsed into the APC,” he insisted. He believes the party can overcome its current challenges, likening it to a strong Iroko tree that stands firm against storms due to its deep roots.
He mentioned that the PDP is learning from its past mistakes and is determined to make improvements for future elections. “From now on, we will ensure that all candidates go through the people,” he declared, stating that imposition of candidates will no longer be tolerated.
In relation to the situation in Rivers State, George called on President Bola Tinubu to restore the suspended Governor Sim Fubara, emphasizing the need to honor the democratic choice of the people. He cautioned against actions that could undermine Nigeria’s democracy, especially in politically sensitive areas.
George also criticized the President’s request to the National Assembly for approvals related to appointments in Rivers under a state of emergency, expressing concern over the concentration of power and its potential negative impact on democracy.
He urged the President to focus on pressing issues facing Nigeria, such as security, hunger, unemployment, and social problems, rather than political maneuvering.
The meeting had notable PDP figures in attendance, including Senators and other party leaders, all committed to discussing the future of the party.
