Chief Olabode George, former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP),has reacted strongly to the departure of some prominent members of the party, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Senate President David Mark.
In his statement, George maintained that while individuals are free to exit and form new political alliances, the presidency should not return to the northern region before 2031. He emphasized that the decision ultimately lies with Nigerian voters in the 2027 general election.
Speaking with journalists, George condemned the conduct of the defectors as unprincipled, referencing the late Dr. Alex Ekwueme, a PDP founding father who, despite contesting for the presidency twice and losing, remained committed to the party’s values and structure.
“This party was built with solid ideals by people like Ekwueme, who never abandoned it despite personal setbacks. If your house has problems, you fix it—not desert it,” George said. “Those who walked away were part of the crisis they helped create during our last convention in Abuja. Now, they want to dictate the way forward? That’s unacceptable.”
George added that their departure highlights a lack of discipline and commitment to the party’s long-term goals.
“They enjoyed the good times, but now that the storm has come, they’re jumping ship. Life is full of challenges. Even God told us to expect trials. So why should they expect politics to be any different?”
He also firmly rejected proposals for the presidency to return to the North in 2027.
“The current agitation to bring the presidency back to the North contradicts the rotational principle the PDP was founded on. We will not support that. Let it be clear: the North can only rightfully seek the presidency again in 2031,” he stated.
George vowed to personally lead the campaign to uphold this zoning arrangement and stressed that the PDP would not mimic the ruling APC’s model.
“We’re not going to produce a candidate like Tinubu. Our focus is on presenting someone who is competent, honest, and able to manage the country’s resources for the good of all,” he added.
He encouraged party loyalists to remain committed and help rebuild the party instead of giving in to frustration.
“You don’t abandon your responsibilities because things get tough. We will stay back and rebuild, just like Nehemiah rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem,” George concluded.
