Bode George, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has strongly rejected claims that the party is no longer relevant, calling those who believe the PDP is “dead” nothing more than “dreamers.”
In an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, George, who serves on the PDP’s Board of Trustees (BoT), expressed firm belief in the party’s vitality. He referred to PDP as “the Iroko political party of Nigeria,” asserting that despite facing challenges, its foundation remains robust. “In political management, ownership structure, camaraderie—what we have in the PDP, they don’t have,” George stated, reinforcing his belief in the party’s enduring strength.
PDP’s Recent Setback and Police Blockade
The interview followed a tense situation earlier that day when police forces obstructed access to the PDP national secretariat in Abuja. George, alongside other members of the National Working Committee (NWC), was turned away from entering the premises, an event he described as “disgraceful.”
“It’s like going back to your home, and suddenly it’s surrounded by police,” George, 79, lamented. “I thought, What in the globe is happening?”
Despite the incident, George emphasized that these challenges have taught the PDP valuable lessons and united its members. He added, “There’s no organisation in the world without a crisis,” calling for unity and honesty in the party’s dealings. “The most sensible thing is to come back, close the door, speak some home truths, debate, and unite—and that is what we’ve done today.”
PDP Board of Trustees Relocates Meeting Amid Security Concerns
In the wake of the blockade, the PDP relocated its Board of Trustees meeting to the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja’s Central Business District, citing security concerns. The decision followed the thwarted attempt to convene at the party’s headquarters, where police had cordoned off the premises, claiming to act in the interest of public order.
George was not the only member critical of the police intervention. Speaking to reporters, he warned the Federal Government against actions that could escalate into a national crisis, particularly noting that there was no court order halting the party’s meeting. “This is our property. Was there any court order stopping us from meeting in our office? Nigerians are watching. You want to turn us into North Korea or Russia? We will not allow it,” George declared.
Later that day, the PDP convened its 100th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting at its Wadata Plaza headquarters, following the removal of the police blockade.
NEC Meeting, Police Presence, and Leadership Crisis
At the NEC session, the PDP Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, led discussions focused solely on setting a date for a larger meeting to address the party’s upcoming national convention. It was agreed that the next NEC meeting would take place on July 23.
Despite the political storm surrounding the party’s operations, George and other BoT members continued to criticize the police deployment. “This is intimidation,” said Maina Chiroma, a fellow BoT member. Former National Secretary Umar Tsauri added that police officers had told them they were following “orders from above.”
The leadership crisis within the party persists, particularly regarding the position of National Secretary. Both Samuel Anyanwu and Sunday Ude-Okoye are laying claim to the role. Despite a ruling from the Supreme Court in March, the factions continue to interpret the decision differently, with a new hearing scheduled for September 22 at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Conclusion: PDP’s Fight for Survival Amid Crisis
The PDP’s recent challenges, including the leadership disputes and the police blockade, are yet another chapter in the party’s turbulent history. However, Bode George remains steadfast in his belief that the PDP’s roots are deep, and its future remains intact. As the party continues to navigate its internal conflicts, George’s remarks are a firm reminder that, despite the odds, the PDP is far from finished.