The political rift between former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, deepened on Wednesday, 28 August.
George called on Atiku to delay any presidential aspirations until 2031, sparking a heated exchange over zoning and the future leadership of Nigeria.
Bode George’s Call for Zoning Adherence
Chief Olabode George has reignited the debate over the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) zoning principles, urging former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to forgo a 2027 presidential bid. In a pointed statement, George argued that a Southern candidate must occupy the presidency to maintain the balance of power after the North’s recent eight-year tenure under President Muhammadu Buhari.
Citing the PDP Constitution, George emphasised that the party’s commitment to zoning and rotation of power is crucial for ensuring justice, fairness, and equity in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Age Factor and Leadership Transition
George also highlighted Atiku’s age, noting that the former Vice President would be 81 by the 2027 election. Drawing a comparison with U.S. President Joe Biden’s recent decision to step aside for Kamala Harris, George suggested that Atiku should similarly allow a younger Southerner to lead the party in the next presidential election.
George, who himself will be in his 80s by 2027, argued that it is time for the next generation to take the reins, thereby reinforcing the principles of good governance and statesmanship.
Rebuttal and Accusations of Tribalism
In response to George’s remarks, Atiku’s camp, through spokesman Paul Ibe, defended the former Vice President’s capabilities, asserting that Nigeria would have thrived under Atiku’s leadership had he won the 2023 election.
George, however, dismissed any accusations of tribalism, stressing his long-standing relationships with Northern leaders and his history of service to Nigeria. He reiterated that his stance is rooted in upholding the PDP’s foundational principles, rather than any personal animosity towards Atiku.
George concluded by advising Atiku to respect the party’s zoning tradition and to consider waiting until 2031 before making another presidential bid. He underscored the importance of unity within the PDP and the need to present a Southern candidate in the 2027 election, framing it as a matter of principle and party loyalty.
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