By Eghobor Moses (SIWES Student, Wellspring University)
Chief Bode George, a former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has advised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to wait until 2031 if he plans to run for President again. George argued that political power should not shift back to the North, where Atiku is from, before 2031.
Atiku’s media adviser, Paul Ibe, dismissed George’s remarks as insensitive and premature, stressing that Atiku is currently focused on 2024 and beyond, and is more concerned with addressing the hardships faced by Nigerians.
George, however, insisted that after former President Muhammadu Buhari’s eight-year tenure, power should remain in the South for another eight years before returning to the North.
He called on Atiku to step aside for younger southern candidates, likening it to U.S. President Joe Biden’s decision to make way for Kamala Harris.
George emphasized the need for fairness, equity, and adherence to the PDP Constitution, insisting that a southerner must lead the party’s charge in 2027.
