Bode George, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has refuted allegations that he didn’t support former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s 2023 presidential campaign due to regional differences.
Speaking on a TVC political program on Sunday night, George clarified his reasons for not endorsing Atiku, rejecting claims from Atiku’s camp.
He stated his opposition stemmed from Atiku’s role in dividing the party during the campaign.
George explained, “When Buhari contested against Atiku, I was fully supportive because Atiku was seen as the right candidate then. I worked hard in Lagos, even supporting his family, all in line with the party’s principles.
“Tribalism isn’t a factor for me. My closest friend is a Fulani man I met in the military, and I have many such relationships across Nigeria. If you can’t speak truth to power, you’re only fooling yourself.”
He continued, “When the last election came around, we realized things weren’t right. After a Northerner had served for eight years, it wasn’t fair to support another Northerner for another eight years. They manipulated the process, which divided our party and cost us the election. Going forward, we’ll establish a committee to review what happened in the general election and afterwards, to better prepare for the future.”
George also urged party members who are dissatisfied to put aside their personal ambitions for the party’s unity and survival, especially as the 2027 elections approach.
