…Insists on Southern candidate for 2027
…Hunger, hardship our principal concern not 2027 politics – Atiku’s camp fires back
By Sodiq Adelakun
As the 2027 presidential election is drawing closer, a storm is brewing within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
A former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode Georg has advised Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, to delay any future presidential aspirations until 2031.
This recommendation comes amid ongoing discussions about the PDP’s internal policies and the need for adherence to zoning principles.
Recall that the ex-deputy Chairman denied claims that he did not support the presidential ambition of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the 2023 election because Abubakar is not from his region.
George, who recently declined his appointment to the PDP National Disciplinary Committee, addressed the issue during a TVC political programme on Sunday night, monitored by Nigerian NewsDirecr.
He denied the claims made by the Atiku camp, stating that his lack of support was due to Abubakar allegedly dividing the party during the election campaign
Meanwhile, in a statement released on Wednesday, George argued that a Southerner should be the PDP’s presidential candidate for the 2027 election, reflecting the party’s commitment to justice, fairness, and equity.
He noted that Atiku, who would be 81 in 2027, should follow the example set by U.S. President Joe Biden, who stepped aside to allow younger leaders to take charge.
George pointed out that Atiku’s northern background and the recent departure of another northern president, Muhammadu Buhari, make it inappropriate for the presidency to return to the North in 2027.
”By 2027, Alhaji Abubakar will be in his 80s. The same principle that applies to our party leadership should apply to him,” the PDP Chieftain said.
He added, “In 2027, the PDP must field a Southerner to challenge the APC, ensuring that the principle of zoning is respected.” George criticised Atiku’s potential bid as a departure from the PDP’s established rotation system and called for adherence to the party’s constitution, which mandates rotation between the North and South every eight years.
George also addressed accusations of tribalism, stating, “I am a detribalised Nigerian and a committed PDP member. My record speaks for itself, and I expect every party member to uphold our zoning principles, regardless of personal interests.”
The former PDP leader reiterated his stance on the importance of party unity and adherence to established democratic principles, urging the PDP to choose a Southern candidate for the 2027 election to reflect the party’s commitment to fairness and equity.
Meanwhile, Media Adviser to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has lambasted Chief Bode George for asking Atiku to wait till 2031 for his presidential ambition.
Ibe described George’s statement as insensitive, given the current hardships faced by Nigerians.
“Hunger and hardship are worrying my principal, and he has put politics aside to focus on humanity, not 2027 politicking,” Ibe said.
“We cannot afford to put the cart before the horse. Atiku Abubakar’s preoccupation is not 2027, but the plight of Nigerians who are going through hell due to the failed policies of this administration.”
Ibe also criticised George for prioritising politics over the welfare of Nigerians.
“It is insensitive to talk about 2027 when the 2023 mandate has not yielded any tangible benefits for Nigerians. Bode George should counsel Tinubu to reassess his policies that have deepened poverty and divisions in our country.
“Bode George should turn his attention to counselling Tinubu to reassess some of his ill-advised policies that have deepened poverty and divisions in our country instead of prioritising the politics of 2027.”
Ibe added, “The average citizen, and indeed all Nigerians, need to survive the tsunami that has become the administration of President Bola Tinubu. It is insensitive to be talking about 2027 now when the 2023 mandate has not yielded any tangible benefits for Nigerians, who are now far worse off in every facet of life.”