Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, has launched a scathing attack on the party’s 2023 presidential flagbearer, Atiku Abubakar, for allegedly sidelining PDP leadership in his pursuit of a new political coalition ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking during an appearance on Arise TV’s The Morning Show on Tuesday, George accused Atiku of treating the PDP as his personal property and bypassing proper internal consultations.
“Those now forming a so-called mega party, what exactly is the purpose?” George asked. “You’re still a member of a well-established organisation, yet you’re meeting outsiders like former President Muhammadu Buhari without discussing your plans with your own party. Is PDP your private company?”
George Questions Atiku’s Alliance With Buhari
George questioned Atiku’s intentions following a recent visit to ex-President Buhari. The former military leader defeated Atiku in the 2019 presidential election.
“You were our candidate against Buhari in 2019. He beat you. Now you go to his house, shaking hands and smiling, as if nothing happened? What does that say about loyalty and purpose?” George stated.
The elder statesman expressed concern that the former vice president’s actions could destabilize the PDP and deepen regional divides in Nigeria.
“Look at those who went to see Buhari, they’re all from one part of the country. Where are the southern voices? Are you trying to break the country into north and south lines just for your ambition?” he queried.
He emphasized that the PDP is governed by collective decisions and warned that any political moves must pass through proper channels.
“You don’t just wake up and decide to chart a new course without consulting the leadership. We operate by rules, even if unwritten. The zoning principle between the North and South exists to protect national unity.”
George urged Atiku to respect that balance and refrain from fuelling division within the party or the country.
“This is not a time for reckless ambition. It’s a time to rebuild trust in our institutions and leadership,” he concluded.
